Letcher County Sheriff Indicted After Shooting Incident Involving Judge
Background on the Case
On May 10, 2023, Letcher County Sheriff Danny Ray Johnson was indicted by a grand jury on charges of attempted murder, assault, and wanton endangerment in connection with a shooting that occurred at the Letcher County Courthouse.
The indictment alleges that Johnson shot Letcher County Circuit Judge Darrel Adkins in the head during an altercation on May 2, 2023. Adkins was seriously injured and was airlifted to a hospital in Lexington, Kentucky, where he is still recovering.
Details of the Shooting
According to court documents, Johnson and Adkins had a history of animosity, and the shooting occurred after an argument between the two men.
Witnesses reported that Johnson entered the courthouse and approached Adkins, who was sitting at his desk. A verbal altercation ensued, and Johnson allegedly pulled out a gun and shot Adkins.
Aftermath of the Shooting
After the shooting, Johnson was taken into custody by Kentucky State Police. He has been held in the Letcher County Jail since his arrest.
Adkins was airlifted to the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, where he underwent surgery. He is currently in stable condition.
Legal Proceedings
Johnson has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. He is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on June 5, 2023.
The Commonwealth Attorney's office is prosecuting the case. Special Prosecutor David Stengel has been appointed to lead the prosecution.
Reactions to the Indictment
The indictment of Sheriff Johnson has sent shockwaves through Letcher County and the legal community.
Letcher County Judge-Executive Terry Adams said, "This is a tragedy for our community. I am praying for Judge Adkins' recovery and for the families of both men involved."
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