Prosecutors seek change of venue in former Letcher County sheriff’s trial

LETCHER COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Prosecutors are asking for the trial of former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines to be moved out of the county, according to a petition for change of venue filed by the Commonwealth’s Attorney.

In the filing, the Commonwealth argues that pretrial publicity and extensive local discussion about Stines’ case could make it difficult to seat an impartial jury in Letcher County.

The motion cites the widespread coverage of his arrest and indictment and points to the close-knit nature of the community, where many potential jurors may personally know Stines or others connected to the case.

Stines, who resigned earlier this year, faces multiple charges including abuse of public trust and official misconduct. He was indicted following a Kentucky State Police investigation into allegations of misuse of public funds and property while serving as sheriff.

Stines is accused in the shooting death of Circuit Judge Kevin Mullins nearly one year ago. A video, released during a court hearing, appears to show Stines shoot Mullins several times, while the two were in Mullins’ chambers in the Letcher County Courthouse.

The petition asks the court to consider moving the trial to another county in order to ensure a fair proceeding. A hearing on the request has not yet been scheduled.