Judge shot dead in Letcher County Courthouse, Kentucky

On a Thursday in a rural Kentucky county, District Judge Kevin Mullins was shot and killed inside the local courthouse. The incident involved Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines, who was charged with first-degree murder after allegedly shooting the judge following an argument. The shooting left the community in shock, as Mullins had served as a district judge since 2009 and was known for his efforts in developing programs to support addiction recovery in the region. The Kentucky State Police are conducting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities have described the incident as isolated, assuring the public that there is no ongoing threat. The local sheriff was taken into custody without incident at the scene, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the immediate response from law enforcement. In response to the tragedy, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his condolences and emphasized the need for a path to a better tomorrow amidst rising violence. The Kentucky Attorney General's office has committed to collaborating with local prosecutors to ensure a thorough investigation and pursuit of justice in this case. Mullins was not only a judge but also a community leader who played a significant role in addressing the opioid crisis through his involvement in the Addiction Recovery Care program, which has been implemented in numerous counties across Kentucky. His untimely death raises concerns about safety and the impact of violence on public service roles.