In a case that has rocked the rural community of Carter County, Kentucky, a sheriff's deputy and a court official stand accused of orchestrating a chilling murder plot.
Mickey D. Stines, a 41-year-old sheriff's deputy, and Kevin S. Mullins, a 52-year-old circuit court coordinator, have been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The alleged target was a man entangled in a bitter custody dispute.
The Alleged Conspiracy
According to court documents, the plot was set in motion to eliminate the father of a child involved in a custody case with a relative of Mr Mullins. The investigation suggests Deputy Stines used his position to surveil the victim and provide crucial information to the alleged hitman.
The victim, whose identity has not been publicly released, was found shot to death on a remote property. The Kentucky State Police, leading the investigation, have described the case as a complex and deeply troubling abuse of power.
Fall from Grace
The arrests have sent shockwaves through the local justice system, where both men were trusted figures. Sheriff Jeff May, clearly dismayed, confirmed that Stines has been suspended without pay pending the outcome of the case.
'This is a devastating betrayal of the public's trust,' a source within the department stated. 'It's something you never expect to happen in your own backyard.'
Legal Proceedings Begin
Both Stines and Mullins were arraigned and are currently being held without bond. The case is expected to be a long and intricate legal battle, with prosecutors alleging a cold-blooded conspiracy driven by personal motives.
The community is left reeling, struggling to reconcile the serious charges against public officials sworn to uphold the law.
