WHITESBURG, Ky. (FOX 56) — Counsel for the former Letcher County, Kentucky sheriff accused of shooting Letcher County District Judge Kevin Mullins told the court that they’re preparing an insanity defense.

Court documents filed on Feb. 27 notified the court of their intention to present “expert evidence” relating to Shawn “Mickey” Stines’ mental state at the time of the shooting.

“Defendant intends to present a defense of insanity, as well as a defense of extreme emotional disturbance,” Jeremey Bartley, attorney, wrote.

However, Stines’ counsel doesn’t intend to argue if he’s able to stand trial.

Bartley has stood by his argument that Stines was experiencing an “extreme emotional disturbance” since it was introduced in October 2024.

In November, Bartley pointed to a deposition that Stines gave in the days before the shooting. He believes that it plays a key role in their case, specifically its timing.

“I think that Mr. Stines’ demeanor prior to, during the deposition and after are going to be important things to look at,” Bartley said. “The substance of what the deposition dealt with—or what other people may have been concerned that this deposition dealt with—can be important factors.”

Court documents state that the Commonwealth could request Stines be examined.