PRESTONSBURG, Ky. — New filings in the Amber Spradlin murder case give the public a clearer picture of the outstanding evidence that prosecutors say justify a delay in the case.
Spradlin’s body was found June 18, 2023, at the Arkansas Creek home of Prestonsburg dentist Michael McKinney. McKinney’s son, M.K. McKinney, has been charged with her murder, while both McKinneys and family friend Josh Mullins are charged with multiple counts of evidence tampering for allegedly trying to cover up the crime.
The case is currently set for trial Dec. 1, but Commonwealth’s Attorney Brent Turner filed a motion last month asking the court to postpone the trial to allow the state crime lab to complete DNA testing of some of the last bits of evidence.
M.K. McKinney’s attorney, Steven Romines, objected to that request, saying it is time for a jury to decide the case.
In a reply filed on Wednesday, Turner said allowing the state crime lab to complete its testing is in the interest of all parties, and failing to do so could result in a “terrible injustice.”
Turner said the lab is still working to complete DNA testing on two large batches of evidence where presumptive blood evidence was found. Those include testing of Spradlin’s clothing and a spot of blood found on Michael McKinney’s bedroom door, as well blood found in numerous areas of the basement and in sink traps throughout the home. He also noted that potential human hairs were also found on several pieces of evidence, which require additional testing for confirmation and possible identification.
Turner said postponing the trial to allow for all evidence testing to be completed would ensure a fair trial for both sides of the case.
Turner also filed a response to Romines’ motion to lower M.K. McKinney’s $5 million bond, saying his office stands by that amount and the state Court of Appeals has upheld it.
A hearing will be held in Pike Circuit Court on Thursday, during which issues of a possible delay and M.K. McKinney’s bond are expected to be discussed. Mountain Top News will be in the courtroom and will stream the proceedings.
Turner’s filings are reprinted below:
