PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Pike Circuit Court judge has denied Michael K. McKinney III's request for work release while awaiting trial in the Amber Spradlin murder case.

In an order entered Monday, October 19, Special Judge Eddy Coleman denied McKinney's supplemental motion to modify his nonfinancial bail conditions. The judge also ordered the defense motion and the Commonwealth's response sealed. The order does not explain the reason for the denial.

In August, McKinney's attorneys sought work release and a reduction of his $5 million bond, citing new DNA testing they argued strengthened their client's defense.

Prosecutors opposed the work release request in September, arguing the additional DNA evidence did not weaken their case against McKinney.

McKinney, his father, Michael McKinney II, and Josh Mullins are scheduled for a pretrial conference October 30 in Pike Circuit Court. Their trial is scheduled to begin January 11, 2027.