PRESTONSBURG, Ky. — The estate of Amber Spradlin has filed a civil complaint against multiple defendants, alleging negligence, wrongful death, evidence tampering, obstruction of justice and other claims.
Spradlin was found dead June 18, 2023, after suffering multiple stab wounds to the head and neck, after attending a party at Arkansas Creek.
The lawsuit was filed by Melisa Samons, who is administratrix of Spradlin’s estate, against official defendants the City of Prestonsburg, Prestonsburg Police Department, former Prestonsburg Police Chief Randy Woods, former Mayor Les Stapleton, the Floyd County Fiscal Court, Judge-Executive Robbie Williams, and Magistrates Mark Crider and George Ousley, as well as dentist Michael McKinney, in whose home Spradlin died; his son, Michael McKinney Jr.; Roy Kidd; Chris McKinney; the Seasons Inn Motel and Restaurant; and other unknown defendants.
The complaint alleges that the county and city were negligent in transferring 911 service from Kentucky State Police to the City of Prestonsburg without making sure that Prestonsburg Police was “adequately prepared, staffed, funded and otherwise ready to handle 911 calls in an appropriate manner.”
The complaint also alleges 911 was negligent in not checking up on a 911 call placed from the house on June 17, 2023, after the Michael McKinney Sr. got on the phone and told dispatchers there was no emergency and no need to send anyone to the house.
The lawsuit also alleges that Spradlin’s murder was not reported “until after efforts were made to cover up the crime.”
The lawsuit seeks compensation for past mental and physical pain and suffering; past medical bills and expenses; actual, consequential, incidental and foreseeable damages; destruction of the power to earn money; punitive damages and legal costs.
A copy of the full complaint is reprinted below:
