FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 8, 2026) – Attorney General Russell Coleman announced today a jury returned a guilty verdict against a Floyd County man.
On Wednesday, a Floyd County Jury found Larry Johnson, 68, guilty of Manslaughter First Degree (Class B Felony). The jury recommended a 20-year sentence.
Last April, Johnson shot and killed Steven Adkins after an altercation in the community of Auxier. According to eyewitnesses, Johnson, who knew Adkins, was on a bridge when he spotted Adkins, stopped his vehicle, and then approached the victim. After a brief struggle, Johnson returned to his vehicle, retrieved his gun and shot Adkins. Adkins later died from his injuries.
A photo of Adkins is available here.
“Nearly one year after losing their loved one, the victim’s family has received justice. I’m grateful for the excellent work of investigators and prosecutors who protected this community from senseless violence,” said Attorney General Coleman.
Kentucky State Police (KSP) investigated the case and was assisted by the Prestonsburg Police Department and the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant Attorneys General Tony Skeans and Shelby Lindon prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth. Aaron Ash of the Attorney General’s Office of Victim’s Advocacy provided services to the surviving family.
Johnson will be sentenced June 4th at 9 a.m. Download his photo here.