Kentucky Attorney Pushes Back on Trial Delay in Amber Spradlin Death Case, Citing “Trial-by-Facebook” Harassment
PIKE COUNTY, KENTUCKY — The attorney representing one of the men accused in the death of 39-year-old Amber Spradlin is opposing a proposed trial delay, claiming the case has already dragged on too long and that his client is being unfairly vilified online.
Attorney Steve Romines, representing Michael “MK” McKinney III, filed a formal objection to the prosecution’s motion for continuance on Oct. 31, arguing that the Commonwealth’s request for more time is “nothing more than a one-sided attempt to strengthen a weak prosecution.”
The case, which has gripped eastern Kentucky for over a year, involves McKinney III, his father Michael McKinney II, and Josh Mullins, all charged in connection with Spradlin’s death.
Defense Argues Case Has Stalled Long Enough
The Commonwealth’s Attorney Brent Turner filed a motion on Oct. 20, explaining that 33 new pieces of evidence are undergoing DNA testing at the Kentucky State Police crime lab. Turner said the process is time-consuming but essential for building a complete case.
Spradlin’s family supports the delay, emphasizing that newly found blood evidence could shed more light on what happened the night she died.
However, Romines insists the trial should proceed as planned, noting that McKinney III has asserted his right to a speedy trial three times in writing since proceedings began.
“This delay is prejudicial to my client and serves only to give the prosecution more time to bolster a weak case,” Romines wrote in his objection.
Claims of Online Harassment and “Trial-by-Facebook”
In his filing, Romines said McKinney III has been publicly harassed on social media, claiming users have called him “the murdering Satan.”
The defense team argues that the online commentary has turned the proceedings into a “trial-by-Facebook,” creating bias and undermining McKinney’s presumption of innocence.
Romines shared screenshots with the court to support his claims, describing the online attacks as relentless and damaging to his client’s reputation.
Questions Raised Over Evidence Testing
Romines also pointed to what he called selective testing of evidence, noting that Roy Kidd, a friend of Spradlin’s who was drinking with her and the defendants the night she died, only had a small portion of his bloodied shirt tested for DNA.
“There is no indication that the Commonwealth is seeking additional testing of the items which would implicate Roy Kidd,” Romines wrote, accusing prosecutors of overlooking potential alternative suspects.
Upcoming Court Hearing in Pike County
According to court documents, McKinney III and co-defendant Josh Mullins are scheduled for a pre-trial conference on Thursday, Nov. 6, in Pike County District Court.
The defense has made it clear they plan to fight any further delays, maintaining that their client deserves his day in court.
As the investigation into Amber Spradlin’s death continues, her family remains hopeful that new DNA evidence will bring clarity — while the defense insists it’s time to let a jury decide.
For continued coverage of this developing case and updates from Kentucky’s court system, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.