Sheriff accused of murdering judge makes 'difficult decision' to retire

A Kentucky sheriff accused of killing a state judge in a shooting that rocked the Letcher County courthouse Sept. 19 made the “difficult decision” Monday to retire less than 24 hours before he makes his next court appearance, according to a letter from his attorney.

Shawn “Mickey” Stines, 43, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of Letcher County District Judge Kevin Mullins in his chambers at the county courthouse in Whitesburg, Kentucky, NBC News reported. The move came after the general counsel for Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear threatened to remove Stines from office, the news station said.

“If you do not tender your resignation, the Governor will move forward with removal,” according to the letter which gave the former sheriff a deadline of last Friday.

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The Law Office of Jeremy A. Bartley, the Stines attorney, said in a statement to news outlets that Stines has "proudly served the people of Letcher County for over 22 years" and "expresses his heartfelt appreciation and love for the support this community has given him and his family during his time in service."

"Mr. Stines has made the difficult decision to effect his retirement as of September 30, 2024," the statement said. "This decision is made, not as a result of any ultimatum or in any way as a concession to any allegations made by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Rather, Sheriff Stines has made this decision to allow for a successor to continue to protect his beloved constituents while he addresses the legal process ahead of him."

Stines, the letter said, also asked "for your thoughts and prayers of support for him and his family."

The shooting remains under investigation, but preliminary reports indicates Stines shot District Mullins multiple times following an argument inside the courthouse, according to Kentucky State Police.

Stines, who has pleaded not guilty, could face the death penalty. He is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday at 1 p.m. for a preliminary hearing, news station WATE reported.