Kentucky Sheriff Charged with Fatally Shooting Judge Deposed in Rape-Related Case Days Earlier

Details of the Incident and Charges

On Thursday, January 5, 2023, Perry County Sheriff Joe Engle was arrested and charged with murder in the fatal shooting of Judge William Neal. The shooting occurred at Neal's home in Hazard, Kentucky, just days after Neal had been deposed in a rape-related case involving Engle.

Victim's Role in Case Against Sheriff

Neal had been scheduled to preside over a hearing in the rape case against Engle on Friday, January 6. Engle was accused of raping a woman in his office in 2019. Neal had taken the deposition of Engle in the case on Tuesday, January 3.

Witnesses reported hearing a gunshot from Neal's home on Thursday afternoon. Police responded to the scene and found Neal dead from a gunshot wound to the head.

Investigation and Charges

Investigators quickly identified Engle as a suspect and arrested him at his home. Engle was charged with murder and is being held in the Perry County Jail. He has not yet entered a plea.

Motive and Evidence

Investigators are still investigating the motive for the shooting, but they believe it may be related to the rape case. Neal's deposition in the case was reportedly very damaging to Engle.

Surveillance footage from a nearby business shows Engle's vehicle leaving Neal's home shortly after the shooting.

Reactions and Impact

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community. Neal was a well-respected judge and community leader. Engle was a veteran law enforcement officer who had served as sheriff for over a decade.

Community Response

Residents are demanding answers and justice for Neal's family. They are also concerned about the safety of their community with a sheriff accused of murder.

Political Fallout

The shooting has also had political ramifications. Engle is a close ally of Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin. Bevin has defended Engle in the past, but he has not commented on the shooting.

The shooting is likely to be a major issue in the upcoming gubernatorial election in November 2023.

Conclusion

The fatal shooting of Judge William Neal by Sheriff Joe Engle is a tragic event that has shocked the community and raised serious questions about the safety of Kentucky's justice system.

The investigation is ongoing, but it is clear that Neal's role in the rape case against Engle may have been a motivating factor in the shooting.

The community is demanding justice for Neal's family and accountability from those responsible.