(WYMT) – Attorneys representing former Letcher Co. Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines have filed an affidavit asking the court to assign a special judge.
The affidavit was filed as a request to remove a judge from a case under certain circumstances.
The defense representing Stines say they believe he will not receive a fair and impartial trial or pretrial proceedings with Judge Christopher Cohron presiding.
The affidavit notes the court issued an order on March 6, 2026, denying a prior verified motion to recuse/disqualify that the defense counsel filed Dec. 29, 2025.
Stines says he became aware of a video from a Kentucky Judicial Commission on Mental Health meeting dated Sept. 12, 2024.
In the affidavit, Stines states the video shows Judge Cohron seated near District Judge Kevin Mullins, described as the victim in the case.
The affidavit also states Mullins’ widow is seen in attendance in the meeting video.
Stines further claims he believes there was a related social or dinner event connected to the meeting.
The affidavit says Mullins spoke in the meeting about legislative efforts and other community/judicial topics, and that Judge Cohron appeared to respond positively.
Stines argues the meeting was close in time to the events in the criminal case, and says it creates an appearance of impropriety.