Prosecutors have requested yet another postponement in the murder trial of Amber Spradlin, citing continued delays in forensic DNA testing that could push the case beyond its scheduled start date next month.
The case involves Michael “M.K.” McKinney III, 26, along with his father, Michael K. McKinney II, 58, and a third defendant, Josh Mullins, 25. Court-ordered mediation is set for Wednesday as attorneys attempt to resolve the charges, which include murder against the younger McKinney and multiple counts of evidence tampering against all three men.
A spokesperson for Spradlin’s family indicated they would consider a plea agreement involving a 50-year prison sentence without parole for M.K. McKinney, along with reduced sentences for the other two defendants if they cooperate. However, family members remain doubtful that a settlement will be reached.
The case stems from the June 2023 killing of Spradlin, 36, who was found stabbed to death on property owned by the elder McKinney, a well-known dentist in eastern Kentucky. The case has drawn significant public attention and has faced repeated delays.
According to Commonwealth’s Attorney Brent Turner, critical forensic testing on evidence collected at the scene remains incomplete, making it difficult to proceed with the trial scheduled for May 11. A judge had previously postponed the trial due to a backlog at the Kentucky State Police crime lab.
Spradlin, who worked as a restaurant hostess, was raised by her grandparents after her mother was killed during her childhood. Her death shocked the local community and has fueled ongoing concerns about delays in the investigation.
In court filings, prosecutors argued there is little reason to deny the request for a continuance, noting that all defendants have been released on bail. M.K. McKinney was freed last year after posting nearly $500,000 bond, a decision strongly opposed by Spradlin’s family.
Despite the setbacks, the victim’s relatives say they remain committed to seeking justice. They expressed willingness to endure further delays if it ensures a stronger case.
Authorities took more than a year to file charges, even though investigators claimed early evidence placed all three defendants at the scene on the night of the killing. M.K. McKinney was formally indicted for murder in July 2024.
Prosecutors allege the defendants attempted to conceal the crime by cleaning the scene and disposing of clothing and the suspected weapon before police arrived.
The case has also sparked legal action beyond the criminal charges. Spradlin‘s family has filed a civil lawsuit against the city of Prestonsburg, its police department, and the Floyd County Fiscal Court, accusing them of negligence. The lawsuit claims that an initial 911 call made before the attack went unanswered, and that a follow-up call to a police official was never documented. Emergency responders reportedly arrived only after a second 911 call was placed.