Kentucky Judge Fatally Shot Inside His Chambers by Local Sheriff
Police Investigating Motive Behind Shooting
A Kentucky judge was fatally shot inside his chambers by a local sheriff on Thursday, according to police.
The shooting occurred at the courthouse in Allen County, Kentucky, around 9 a.m. The victim was identified as 58-year-old Judge Brian Crick.
The suspect, 61-year-old Sheriff Scotty Lockard, was taken into custody at the scene. He has been charged with murder.
Motive for Shooting Unclear
Police are still investigating the motive behind the shooting. However, authorities said there was a "history of animosity" between Crick and Lockard.
According to the Kentucky State Police, Lockard had filed a complaint against Crick with the Kentucky Judicial Conduct Commission in 2021. The complaint alleged that Crick had engaged in "judicial misconduct."
Crick denied the allegations and the commission ultimately dismissed the complaint.
Community in Shock
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the small community of Allen County. Residents are struggling to understand why such a violent act could happen in their courthouse.
"This is a terrible tragedy," said Allen County Judge-Executive Johnny Hobdy. "Our hearts go out to Judge Crick's family and friends."
The Kentucky Supreme Court has ordered an investigation into the shooting. The court has also appointed a special judge to oversee the cases that were pending before Crick.
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