A shocking video reveals Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines pointing a gun at Judge Kevin Mullins' head and allegedly shooting him eight times during a confrontation in September, prompting an immediate investigation.

The incident, which took place in Judge Mullins' chambers on September 19, has sent shockwaves through the community as it involves a longtime friendship between the two officials turned violent. Stines, who has since retired and pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, claims self-defense due to a perceived threat to his family, but authorities are exploring the possibility of a deeper motive linked to a potential scandal. The case has now been handed to a grand jury for further action.

The newly released video shows a tense exchange between Stines and Mullins, which escalated during a heated conversation in Judge Mullins' chambers on September 19. According to reports, Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines pointed a gun at Judge Kevin Mullins' head before allegedly shooting him. Eyewitness accounts and the surveillance footage suggest a sudden shift in the atmosphere, resulting in a tragic outcome for Judge Mullins.

As the confrontation unfolded, Judge Mullins attempted to protect himself by raising his hands and turning away from Stines. Despite his efforts, the sheriff fired several rounds, hitting Mullins eight times. Reports indicate that two of the shots were fired at close range after Mullins attempted to take cover under his desk. This detail adds to the harrowing nature of the incident, illustrating the desperation of the judge in the moments leading up to the shooting.

Following the shooting, Kentucky Detective Clayton Stamper testified that Sheriff Stines surrendered to law enforcement without resistance. This act of surrender appears contradictory to the violent actions that preceded it, raising questions about the sheriff's state of mind during the incident.

At the time of his arrest, Stines reportedly claimed to police, 'They’re trying to kidnap my wife and kid,' suggesting that he perceived an imminent threat to his family. This declaration may become a focal point in his defense strategy, as the sheriff navigates accusations of murder while maintaining his innocence.

The relationship between Stines and Mullins adds another layer of complexity to the case. Both men had a lengthy friendship, having shared lunch mere hours before the incident.

Investigators have also gathered additional surveillance footage from the day of the shooting, which reportedly shows Sheriff Stines making phone calls to his daughter before the altercation. The contents of these calls could provide further context to the sheriff's state of mind leading up to the events in the judge's chambers.

While no specific motive for the shooting has been officially disclosed by the defense attorney, Jeremy Bartley, there are indications of an ongoing investigation into a potential sex scandal involving Stines. This investigation could provide crucial insight into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, should evidence emerge linking the sheriff's actions to this alleged scandal.

In the aftermath of the incident, Sheriff Stines announced his retirement. His immediate departure from the force coincides with his plea of not guilty to the charge of first-degree murder. The decision to resign may signal a shift in strategy as he prepares for the legal battle ahead.

The grand jury process will now determine whether there is sufficient evidence to indict Stines for the shooting. The presentation of evidence and testimonies from witnesses, alongside the video footage of the confrontation, will play critical roles in influencing the outcome of this high-profile case.

As the community of Letcher County grapples with the aftermath of the incident, officials and residents alike await the grand jury’s decision. The implications of this case reach far beyond the courtroom; both the judicial and law enforcement systems are under scrutiny as they navigate the fallout of the alleged actions taken by Sheriff Stines against Judge Mullins.