Shawn ‘Mickey’ Stines emphasizes fear of being killed during police questioning
before the shooting. This condition is characterized by a sudden onset of psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia and delusions, triggered by a traumatic event or stressor.
Dr. Lieberman also noted that Stines’ refusal to answer questions about the shooting during the police interview could be attributed to his mental state at the time. “His belief that the police were going to harm him likely prevented him from being able to focus on anything else, including providing information about the incident,” she said.
The bodycam footage of the police interview with Stines provides a chilling glimpse into the mind of a man who was clearly in distress. His constant fear of being harmed, despite reassurances from the officers, sheds light on the severity of his mental state leading up to the shooting.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, it is clear that mental health will play a significant role in Stines’ defense. The events leading up to the tragic incident at the Letcher County Courthouse highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.
Fox News Digital will continue to follow this story as more details emerge and the case unfolds. Stay tuned for updates on the investigation into the shooting of District Judge Kevin Mullins by former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines.
