PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (Scripps News Lexington) — The trial for the Amber Spradlin case has been postponed until November 6 after the prosecutor filed a motion on Monday asking the judge for a delay so they could complete all forensic testing.
Earlier this week, the attorney for Amber Spradlin’s family announced the murder trial would be delayed after presumptive blood evidence was found on several items.
Attorney Mark Wohlander said Kentucky State Police crime lab tests found presumptive blood evidence on several items, prompting Commonwealth Attorney Brent Turner to seek additional DNA testing that could take months to complete.
Spradlin was found dead inside the home of a Prestonsburg dentist in June of 2023. Three men have been charged in connection with the stabbing death of the 38-year-old.
A billboard put up by Amber Spradlin’s family called for justice in her murder. (Scripps News Lexington)
Michael “MK” McKinney III was charged with murder and seven counts of complicity to tampering with physical evidence in the case. MK McKinney’s father, Prestonsburg dentist Dr. Michael McKinney II, was charged with seven counts of complicity to tampering with physical evidence. Josh Mullins was also charged with seven counts of complicity to tampering with physical evidence.
Prosecutors said the additional testing is critical to the case and could impact courtroom strategy.
“This type of delay is not unusual for a murder case of this magnitude,” prosecutors previously noted, adding that presenting such cases to a jury can often take as many as three years.
The court may also hold a Daubert hearing before trial to determine the admissibility of expert testimony, a process used when one side challenges the scientific reliability of evidence. Prosecutors indicated they plan to call multiple expert witnesses at trial, including personnel from the crime lab and another specialist.
Spradlin’s family has voiced full support for delaying the proceedings, saying the extension will allow prosecutors to ensure the case is as strong as possible before presenting it to jurors.
This story was originally published by Scripps News Lexington, an E.W. Scripps Company.
