Wife of late Edwards County judge charged with his murder

HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) – The wife of a late Edwards County judge is being charged with murder in connection to his death.

According to the Edwards County Coroner, Michael Valentine was shot in his home on November 5. His wife, Megan Valentine, had her first appearances in court. She is officially charged with three counts of murder and one count of aggravated domestic battery and aggravated discharge of a firearm

Edwards County Sheriff's deputies say they were dispatched to Valentine's home at 12:15 p.m. for a welfare check before finding Valentine dead shortly after arriving.

Second Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Melissa Morgan said Valentine will be missed.

"On behalf of all of the judges of the Second Judicial Circuit, we are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our colleague and friend, Edwards County resident Judge Michael J. Valentine," she said. "Judge Valentine was elected to serve as Circuit Judge in 2016 and then retained by the voters of the Second Circuit in 2022. Having formally served as Edwards County State's Attorney, he brought to the bench experience in law and a commitment to public service. Judge Valentine was a distinguished jurist who was determined in the pursuit of justice and his compassion and conduct earned him the confidence and respect of the people who appeared before him. He will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time."

Illinois State Police are continuing to investigate and have yet to announce any new information at this time.