Spradlin murder case going to trial in December

By Roberta Cantrell
BSN Editor

A date has finally been set in the Spradlin murder case and a change of venue has been granted moving the case from Floyd County to Pike County.

Special Judge Eddy Coleman filed an order on Wednesday, May 21, setting the date as Monday, Dec. 1.

Judge Coleman said in an April hearing he preferred setting the trial date near the first of December, saying he would like proceedings to be finished by the end of the year, but Wednesday’s order gives the trial an official date to begin.

Spradlin’s body was found June 18, 2023, in the Arkansas Creek home of Prestonsburg dentist Michael McKinney. She had been stabbed at least a dozen times in the neck and head.

McKinney’s son, M.K. McKinney, has been charged with her murder, while both McKinney’s and family friend Josh Mullins have been charged with eight counts evidence tampering for allegedly trying to cover up the crime.

The ordered also said no groups will be allowed to demonstrate on behalf of Spradlin or any of the parties in the case within 25 feet of any entrance of the Pike County Judicial Center. Those taking part in demonstrations in other areas are also barred from taking any action that could disrupt proceedings, such as encouraging passing motorists to honk their horns. Likewise, those attending the trial will be barred from wearing any apparel depicting support for Spradlin or any of the parties of the case.