A Kentucky sheriff has pleaded not guilty in the fatal shooting of a judge in a courthouse chamber. The incident occurred when the sheriff, identified as John Perry, allegedly shot and killed Franklin County Circuit Court Judge Tom Underwood during a struggle in the chamber. Perry claims that he fired in self-defense after Underwood attacked him with a metal chair.
The shooting took place in the Franklin County Courthouse in Frankfort, Kentucky, sparking shock and outrage among residents and the legal community. Perry, who has been the sheriff of Franklin County for over a decade, surrendered to authorities following the incident and was subsequently charged with murder.
During his arraignment, Perry entered a plea of not guilty and was released on a $250,000 bond. The judge set strict conditions for his release, including surrendering his firearms, refraining from contacting the victim’s family, and staying away from the courthouse. Perry’s defense attorney argued that the sheriff was acting in self-defense and expressed confidence that he will be acquitted.
The tragic incident has raised questions about courthouse security and the use of deadly force by law enforcement officers. The Kentucky State Police are conducting an investigation into the shooting, and the case is expected to go to trial in the coming months.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community, as Judge Underwood was a well-respected member of the legal community and had served on the bench for several years. His untimely death has left many in mourning and seeking justice for his tragic loss. The case remains ongoing as Perry continues to maintain his innocence and fight the charges against him.
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