The community gathered on Sunday to pay tribute to District Judge Kevin R. Mullins, who was tragically shot and killed by Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines in a courthouse incident last week. The funeral service, held at Jenkins High School, drew hundreds of mourners, including a procession of judges, to commemorate Mullins’ legacy.
Mullins, 54, was reportedly shot multiple times by Stines in the judge’s chambers on Thursday afternoon. Stines has been charged with murder and is anticipated to appear in court this week. The Kentucky State Police have indicated that the shooting followed a dispute, though the exact motive remains under investigation.
The funeral service featured a significant law enforcement presence and was marked by heartfelt tributes from judges across Kentucky. They highlighted Mullins’ pioneering efforts in combating opioid addiction and his advocacy for treatment over incarceration for low-level offenders.
“His commitment to improving lives was unmatched,” said State Supreme Court Judge Debra Lambert, who worked alongside Mullins on the Judicial Commission on Mental Health. “Our court family feels a profound sense of loss.”
Family members, including Mullins’ mother, Patsy Holbrook Mullins, chose not to speak during the service. From her wheelchair, she greeted mourners near her son’s open casket, which was decorated with a bouquet of yellow flowers. In a statement to NBC News, she expressed her gratitude for the community’s support.
“I am deeply moved by the outpouring of support,” she said. “Kevin’s mission to tackle the opioid epidemic was his passion.”
Judge J. Foster Cotthoff praised Mullins as a dedicated leader and innovator in opioid treatment. “He had a unique ability to see the good in people,” Cotthoff remarked to the crowd of about 500 attendees.
Mullins was known for his rehabilitative approach to justice, advocating for treatment services over incarceration for those affected by opioid addiction. His efforts were recognized statewide and contributed to a significant shift in how the justice system supports recovery.
Matt Brown, president of Addiction Recovery Care, commended Mullins for his forward-thinking approach. “He was an innovator and far ahead of his time,” Brown said.
Born in 1970 in Pikeville, Kentucky, Mullins began his legal career after obtaining a political science degree from the University of Kentucky and a law degree from the University of Louisville. Appointed as a District Court judge in 2009, he served for 14 years.
During the service, District Judge James Craft shared a personal anecdote, recounting a New York City trip with Mullins, who famously canceled gourmet reservations to enjoy a simple cheeseburger. “Kevin was many things to many people, but to me, he was a friend,” Craft said.
Mullins is survived by his wife, Kimberly; daughters, Mya and Ava; his mother; a sister; three nephews; and a niece. The community’s response to his passing underscores the profound impact of his work and the deep sense of loss felt by those who knew him.
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