Investigation Continues into Deadly Family Shooting
Investigation Continues into Deadly Family Shooting Save Email Print
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Police say a homeowner shot and killed a man who was trying to break into his home.

It happened in a trailer on Sinking Creek Road late Sunday night, just off west Highway 80.

Kentucky State Police tell 27 NEWSFIRST 46-year-old Jesse Justice reportedly tried to enter the home, and that he was armed with a Machete.

When police arrived, they found Justice dead at the scene, shot and killed by the homeowner, Paul Whitworth, the suspects father-in-law.

Police say that an active Domestic Violence Disorder was in effect at the time against Justice, taken out by his wife, Edna Whitworth, and her parents.

No charges have been filed in the case.

The incident remains under investigation by the Laurel County Major Crimes Task Force.

AP Story

LONDON, Ky. (AP) - State police say that a man armed with a machete was shot and killed by his father-in-law late last night in southeastern Kentucky.

Police say there was a domestic violence order against 46-year-old Jesse Justice Junior of London when he went to the home of his in-laws in Laurel County. Police say the order was taken out by Justice's wife and her parents.

When officers arrived, Justice's body was found inside his in-law's home.

Authorities say Justice was shot by his father-in-law, Paul Whitworth.

The shooting is being investigated by state police and Laurel County authorities.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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Posted by: PS Location: Ironton, Ohio on Jul 10, 2007 at 09:07 PM
If anyone knows the status of this case, please reply with your informaiton. I have tried several times to find if the Whitworth man will face any charges, if the investigation is finished,etc.
Posted by: been there Location: ky on Jul 10, 2007 at 10:35 AM
I HAVE A NEICE IN THAT WAS SHOT BY HER HUSBAND AND THEN HE SHOT HIMSELF,HE DIED THINKING HE KILLED HER. THEY HAD THREE LITTLE BOYS WHO WATCHED ALL THIS HAPPEN. THEY ALL SURVIED. BUT IT HAS BEEN A LONG ROAD FOR THEM. MY NEICE MARRIED AGAIN AND HAD A BEAUTIFUL LITTLE GIRL,ONLY TO HAVE HER HEAD SPLIT OPEN WITH A MACHETE, SHE WAS HOLDING THE BABY AND THIS MAN JUST STARTED SLICING,THE ONLY THING THAT SAVED HER IS SHE PLAYED LIKE SHE WAS DEAD. THIS MAN SPENT A TOTAL OF 18 MONTHS IN JAIL AND NOW HAS VISITING RIGHTS WITH HIS DAUGTHER. AND THIS IS JUSTICE. I DON'T KNOW ANY OF THEASE PEOPLE BUT I FEEL FOR BOTH SIDES THE MAN THAT DIED, HIS FAMILY FOR THERE LOSS AND THE MAN THAT HAD TO DO WHAT HE FELT WAS THE THING TO DO AT THE TIME. I JUST WISH MY NEICE'S FATHER HAD BEEN THERE FOR HER! GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Posted by: steve Location: kentucky on Jul 9, 2007 at 10:50 PM
It is a good thing Paul Whitworth is a "God Fearing" man...because he will have to answer to him for what he has done. This was pre-meditated, vigilante justice. His daughter visited Jesse each weekend at the rehab center he was in, and made plans to move away from her family to be able to make a fresh start. Her father wanted to keep her close, because he is a controlling man. If she was so afraid of her husband, why was she walking alone with the kids at night? Her father waited with a loaded gun at the house. Sounds like a plan to me. Jesse was probably invited to the house, and told to park his car down the road just as he had done many times before so Edna's father wouldn't know he was there. Jesse expected to walk into that unlocked door to find his family and hope to spend some time with them. Edna set him up. She played both Jesse and her father to get attention. She is a sick individual. Only thing.....Jesse didn't hide his illness, drugs, but she does.
Posted by: April Location: Ironton, OH on Jul 9, 2007 at 10:44 PM
Ok for one....it seems to me that this was pre-meditated murder....this was Jesse's and Edna's house that was bought for them to live in....so he was not breaking in....for another....if Paul Witworth was a God fearing man....then why did he not follow God's commandments....Thou Shall Not Kill! If he was really a God fearing man then he would not have done this awlful thing...he would not have taken matter into his own hands and take a life of another man....you all can say whatever you want about Mr. Witworth...but he did break God's commandments....therefore that is a sin.....and after I have read this story and read these comments I would have to say that this was a set up....my prayers are with both of the families!
Posted by: Tinker Location: Ohio on Jul 9, 2007 at 09:52 AM
I know the Justice family, and I think Jesse was set up. Not becaues I know him and the family but because Jesse really was a good man and yes he may have had some problems with drugs in the past but did he deserve to die? NO I DON'T THINK SO..The people at the rehab center new he was a clean man when he was released on the friday before his death. I think this was a easy way for Mr.Whitworth to get rid of Jesse for good. You just don't set around in a house with a loaded gun and wait for someone to break in, and if what Mr.Whitworth says is true that he had to run and get the gun and load it,I am sorry a 60 some year old man could not out run a 46 year old man thats in good shape. Mr.Whitworth never would have out run him to get the gun. Yes Jesse did go to the house and if he was there to hurt someone he NEVER would have taken his shoes off at the door! This is a case that the family of Jesse will not let go. There are just too many loose ends in this case that just don't add up. I just hope that his little boy knows that his grandfather took his daddy away for good.
Posted by: kristin on Jul 8, 2007 at 04:35 PM
the man came home to meet his wife with a machete did yall think he was goin to slice bread? i dont think so
Posted by: kristen Location: jackson on Jul 8, 2007 at 01:08 AM
And he went there with a machete, what did you think he was gonna do slice bread?
Posted by: Voice of Reason Location: Lexington on Jul 5, 2007 at 01:11 PM
I have read all the comments below and have come to this conclusion; we all know nothing. A dead person can't talk and people who are his family and friends will talk on his behalf to make it appear he wasn't at fault. That's the normal thing that happens to protect one's family; neither right nor wrong, it's just human nature. Paul Whitworth can talk and will tell his side of the story to the police as well as the media. His side will obviously differ from that of Mr. Justice's family. For people to tell others on this site they shouldn't make judgement unless they know the facts is erroneous. People can comment from the story that is posted. Yes, some closer to the parties involved can and will comment more in depth, whether right or wrong. For the Justice Family to tell Zachary "so you get the facts straight before you make your judgmental comments!" is wrong. I may not agree with all his comments but in saying what he did about whose residence it was is not wrong. He commented on what the story reported. This site is specifically set up for people to comment and everyone is entitled to their opinion; right, wrong or indifferent. Also, you have to realize some people will comment on anything in an "in your face" manner just to get a rise out of people and that is exactly what is happening with some of these postings. Read past them and don't give them the satisfaction of a reply.
Posted by: Zachary Location: Not in KY on Jul 5, 2007 at 12:55 PM
Note to mad...just read the comments from people like "star" and tell me illiteracy is not a problem. Yes, maybe you are right; maybe KY is too good for me and doesn't want me because I can form my words in a grammatical fashion that is educated and is not a run on sentence without periods or words spelled incorrectly. And by the way, what the heck are you "mad" about? It appears you know how to form a sentence and put your thoughts down in a legible manner so my comments should not affect you at all.
Posted by: Barbara Location: London on Jul 5, 2007 at 10:57 AM
TO THE OHIO FAMILY----PAUL WHITWORTH BOUGHT THE TRAILER ACROSS THE ROAD FROM HIM FOR EDNA BECAUSE HE FEARED FOR HER AND HER CHILDERN'S LIVES (THEY HAD LIVED BEHIND HIM FOR YEARS). THERE WAS A EPO OUT ON JESSE SO HE SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN THERE. JESSE DIDN'T WORK, HE LIVED OFF EDNA.........
Posted by: Common Sense Location: Richmond on Jul 5, 2007 at 10:36 AM
I just wish that some of you would learn to use periods when you write. It is so hard to read your comments. They may make sense to you when you read it, but to others it looks like a mess. I would love to read what you have to say, but I can not understand it. When you have to pulse for a second, just add a period or comma, that would help. Thanks.
Posted by: Suzanna Location: Central Kentucky on Jul 5, 2007 at 09:46 AM
Paul Whitworth shot Jesse Justice three times with a double barreled gun. So, he had to pause and reload to get that third shot in. Paul and Jesse are both God's handiwork. There is a bit of good in the worst of us and a bit of bad in the best of us. They are both children of God who have a right to be here and live the gift of life they were given upon being born. Today, I will challenge myself to concentrate not so much on what needs to be changed in the world as on what needs to be changed in me and my attitudes. Cherish your life.
Posted by: Jed Location: In the Holler on Jul 5, 2007 at 09:06 AM
Reading the comments here are just too funny and proves illiteracy runs wild in this state just like domestic shootings. I really hate to tell people I'm from the same area where these things happen day after day. I have to agree with Zachary for the most part. I don't think all are bad but unfortunately when the media starts their interview process, they always seem to pick out the most illiterate, toothless wonder I have ever laid eyes on. If you don't want to be referred to in this aspect, get an education, learn to spell and speak correctly and people might take you seriously. As far as the story goes, one comment says that Paul Whitworth BOUGHT the trailer where his daughter and son-in-law lived. That doesn't sound to me like a man who would intentionally "stake out" his son-in-law to kill him. Sounds to me like he was a good hearted individual who went out of his way to ensure his daughter and her family had some comfort in their life. Why couldn't Justice provide for his own family?? I'll agree there are always two sides to a story, but each side will always try to protect their own which is the reason for law enforcement and the court system.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Ky on Jul 4, 2007 at 10:54 PM
The Justice family must of not been to close to each other or they would of knowed about his Violnet temper. What happened in the relationship befor Edna?? Was the Whitworth family the only ones that got a EPO ( Emergency Protective Order ) on Justice???
Posted by: mary Location: london k.y. on Jul 4, 2007 at 09:45 PM
To those that do not even know my uncle he is a god fearing ,loveing ,sweet,honest man who has never did anything to hurt anyone or anyone feelings. i have met jesse he was rude disrespectful toward my uncle who never did anything to him except make sure his son was took care of . so unless you know everything about mr. whitworth . you should,nt judge a good god fearing and loveing man. it was him defending his self and the family . mr. justice should have stayed away. he had threatened my uncle several times . uncle i love you and always will.And to the justice family i am sorry for your loss but he chose his own path .
Posted by: BUD8FAN Location: OHIO on Jul 4, 2007 at 05:21 PM
TO CHAD AND ANYONE ELESE WITH THE QUESTION THAT WAS HIS HOME THAT THE INLAWS HAD BOUGHT FOR JESSE AND EDNA TO LIVE IN. THIS WOMAN THAT IS SO SCARED OF JESSE WENT TO VISIT HIM IN REHAB. SO CAN ANYONE EXPLAIN IF SHE WAS SO SCARED OF HIM WHY DID SHE GO VISIT HIM AND TELL HIS FAMILY THAT IF HE GOT OFF THE DRUGS SHE WOULD TAKE HIM BACK. THIS MAN THAT WENT IN HIS HOME TO KILL HIM FAMILY TOOK HIS SHOES OFF AT THE DOOR BEFORE HE ENTERED THE HOME. SO I THINK THE FAMILY NEEDS TO QUESTION WHAT REALLY HAPPENED BECAUSE HE IS NOT HERE TO TELL HIS SIDE OF THE STORY.
Posted by: shane Location: london on Jul 4, 2007 at 03:44 PM
I'm sorry to hear of such behavior ,but I know that if anyone comes at my family after being told by the law not to be around them and then show up with a weapon they are just asking for it.The way I understand it he just got out of jail for choking her.Come on he was asking for trouble showing up there and his car wasn't in the area.He was going to do something bad and you all don't want to admit it.Paul was just doing something that we all would do if we were in his shoes.My prayers are with both families.
Posted by: jackson Location: kentucky on Jul 4, 2007 at 02:40 PM
I have been studying the reports about this event from the beginning. I must agree it is a tragedy. However, it I must also agree there is some things that don't make good sense. Paul Whitworth reports his family feared for thier lives, but also says his daughter "walked the kids across the road to spend the night with their grandmother at 11:00 at night" while he stayed at the Justice home where he planned to spend the night to "protect" his daughter. Who was protecting her when she walked alone with the children at night? It seems highly unlikely Jesse Justice would arrive at the exact time she was walking them across the road. I have also heard reports that Edna Whitworth or Justice,also visited her husband every weekend during his recent stay at rehab and had made plans to move to West Virginia with Jesse to get away from her parents to the marriage would have a fresh start and chance to work. It seems this whole incident was a set up to me, and I have no ties to either family. I hope the police officers speak to someone at the rehabilitation center who worked with Jesse and get some facts sorted out.
Posted by: Barbara Location: London,Ky on Jul 4, 2007 at 02:25 PM
My thoughts and prayers go out to the whole Whitworth family, especially Paul. They are all a good family. It hurts me to read all the things the Justice family are posting. Paul Whitworth would NOT hurt a fly if he had not had to. He was defending his family. The trailer belonged to Paul so when a mad man comes in with a machete in his hand, who would take the time to call 911 before he shot!!! I know Paul will carry this with him for the rest of his life, but with God's help, he will be okay. There is a lot of blame to go around, but with that mad man gone now the family can heal!!!
Posted by: withheld Location: Ky on Jul 4, 2007 at 12:04 PM
This is a very sad story and it touches my heart in a special way. I do not know this family or anyone in it, but I have lived part of this life myself. My father abused my mother for 18 years and she was afraid to leave because of the threats he had made. When she finally did file for divorce he made her life a living hell. She too had a EPO and that did very little good, the police did come to our house and many other places, but what happens until they get there? Being scared is the worst way to live your life, I know. To everyone involved in this I send my heart and prayers. I commend the father in law for protecting his family, some times you have to do what you have to do.
Posted by: SK Location: LONDON,KY. on Jul 4, 2007 at 11:29 AM
THE JUSTICE BROKE IN AND WAS MURDERED NO MATTER WHO HE WAS OR PROBLEMS HE HAD -HE IS DEAD.THE FATHER IN LAW KNEW HE WAS COMING-SO ISN`T THAT PRE MEDITATED?
Posted by: cutter Location: South of East KY on Jul 4, 2007 at 07:33 AM
Stop saying the police didn't care or wasn't doing they're jobs. Would you be happier if every home had a cop setting on the porch watching you ? NO, then you'd be whinnying that your overprotected. Understand this. Police don't prevent crime, they investigate it.
Posted by: mad Location: KY on Jul 4, 2007 at 01:23 AM
This is to Zachary-I am glad you moved out of KY, too. How dare you to refer to us as uneducated and illiterate! You and people like you make me sick. Look around you-those problems exist everywhere. This is a wonderful state, with much to be proud of. Whoever you are, what makes you think you are too good for the state of KY? Did you ever stop to think that just maybe the state of KY is too good for YOU?
Posted by: Anonymous Location: london, ky on Jul 4, 2007 at 01:02 AM
First off, I would like to know if this wasn't planed to kill mr justice, why would his father in law use a darrenger pistol and shot him 3 time, when the gun will only hold 2 shots? further more doesn't ky have a duty to retreat to avoid having to do something like this?
Posted by: star Location: ky on Jul 4, 2007 at 12:08 AM
have youever heard the saying what go around comes around well i knew jesse he said he was jogging on the side the roadwhen he met edna she pull over thus he had a girlfriend at the time .well lets just say they got together the sad thing is she knew he was on drugs as i recall plenty of time she would take him and get pill i would say paul the father knew thatand wanted her to break upwith him she wouldnt paul could not stand jesse but could you blame him he done odd job it wasnt like he was fall down pill user he love chicken fighting and made good withit he made a good living he was a hard worker jessewas a charmer hes from ohio sweet and kind he never had a bad thing to about anyone he neverwhat time i knew him about seven year he didnt cuss much or down anybody if anything men were jealous of him and wanted him to diappear she couldnt keep her man to the house he was a player i believe edna love him so much she hated him and the drugs didnt help as far as iknow desparation brought him to the house i believe they was trying to cut all ties with him after gettingout of jail he went to the houseto try to fix thing he had know were to go and step in the door of no return
Posted by: a friend of the family Location: london on Jul 3, 2007 at 07:47 PM
paul and sue whitworth are two of the best people that ever walked the earth .they would do anything for a friend or someone in need ,i am positive that they tried with this man ..to help him ..to bring him to the LORD to do whatever they thought would help .you would have to know paul ..sweet and kindhearted ...gentle and loving ..softspoken and good .just plain good .i know he is tore all to pieces over taking a life .to think he planned this ....YOU PEOPLE ARE SOOOO WRONG .this is a man of god ..a good good man .please let him be .he will torture himself inside enough .
Posted by: jo Location: ky on Jul 3, 2007 at 07:24 PM
This is addressed to the person at rehab..how do you a person after spending 30 days or less with them. Anyone who is forced to do something will do anything to make sure get out sooner. I have personally seen that side of Mr. Justice. He could convince you to buy sand in a sand box..so please remember why he was in rehab..the drugs destroyed this family!!!!!
Posted by: Justice Family Location: Ohio on Jul 3, 2007 at 07:19 PM
This is in reference to zachary, not in kentucky. For your info...tom fuller was correct in saying it was jesse's home he was entering. the media was the one who made the mistake by saying it was his in-laws house. jesse was killed in his own home he had shared with his wife. paul whitworth was inside their home waiting. paul whitworth lived across the road. so you get the facts straight before you make your judgmental comments!
Posted by: Tammy Location: Mt. Sterling on Jul 3, 2007 at 06:37 PM
I grew up in London, KY and Paul and his family (distant relatives of mine) always set a wonderful example for me. I don't think I've said "Thank You" for putting up with me when I was a kid. Paul, you picked me up and took me to church (Liberty Baptist) where I saw that the way my life at home was is not how all people live. It gave me hope. I want to let the family know that there is life, peaceful life, after dealing with abuse. God does know all. He only hands us what we can handle. Edna - it brings tears to my eyes to know how things have been for you in the past few years. You are all in my prayers. This just goes to show that protective orders do nothing to protect the abused. Paper does not stop machetes. The police can only get involved after someone gets hurt. This is how our system is set up. The laws need to change. Maintain hope and faith Whitworth Family! I will also pray for the Justice family. I know they are angry, confused, and want answers. I do not believe that Paul wanted to kill anyone. He did what he had to do. A Christian does not have to like a person's actions, but he also does not cause harm unless in self defense. I hope all of you will one day find peace for the sake of these beautiful children.
Posted by: annoymous Location: ky on Jul 3, 2007 at 02:57 PM
paul had been staying with the daughter & they was not waiting on jesse to come. believe me this not pre-meditation like the justice family seems to believe. and edna was leaving her mothers house to go back home where her father was waiting on her return when jesse went in on him thinking it would have been edna.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: ky on Jul 3, 2007 at 02:52 PM
i personally know what the family has been and had been going through. mr.justice made the whitworth family go through SO much hell the past six yrs. & nobody in the Law enforcement seemed to care more then what they had too. he made the wife & little boy live a sheltered life so sheltered that Kyle never has got the chance to visit any other relatives besides in london or ohio. the daughter of edna hadnt lived with her mother for 6 yrs after jesse became violent until he recently was arrested in march. the justice family knows what the whitworths was put through with threats & beatings. they had told the in-laws they didnt want jesse home & to do what they had to do to stop the abuse. now thats its done they cant accept that fact. Jesse had put them through so much even to the point of making rude comments about & to the daughter for having friends over. Paul Whitworth is one of the most kind hearted people you could ever meet & he wouldnt hurt anybody unless he absolutly had to. The Justice family didnt even know Paul, their just trying to find someone else to blame because Jesse aint here now. but for the people that does know the Whitworth family...Paul especially....they've literally been put through hell. and if somebody came after me with a mechte im sure id defend myself & my family too.
Posted by: NOT IMPORTANT on Jul 3, 2007 at 12:56 PM
I WOULD LIKE EVERYONE INVOLVED TO KNOW THAT THEY ARE IN MY PRAYERS. I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO SAY THAT THE FATHER IN LAW DID WHAT HE WAS FORCED TO DO IN THIS SITUATION. THIS MAN IS NOT SOME SORT OF MONSTER, HE IS A GOOD GOD FEARING MAN THAT LOVES HIS FAMILY. TO ALL OF YOU WHO ARE BUSY JUDGING THIS MAN MAYBE YOU SHOULD KNOW HIM! IF THIS WERE YOUR FAMILY HOW FAR WOULD YOU GO TO PROTECT THEM? I THINK INSTEAD OF SINGING PRAISES FOR WHAT HAS HAPPENED WE SHOULD BE CALLING ON GOD TO HELP THESE FAMILIES. THIS MAN DOESN'T WANT PRAISES FOR TAKING ANOTHER PERSONS LIFE, THIS MAN IS SO MEEK AND GENTLE, AND WOULD DO ANYTHING TO HELP OTHER PEOPLE. AS FOR THE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LET THE RECORDS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES, WHEN YOU DO EVERYTHING YOU CAN TO GET AWAY FROM IT AND IT CONTINUES TO HAPPEN, I GUESS YOU TEND TO FEEL THAT IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT YOU DO YOU ARE JUST WAITING FOR THE NEXT TIME. SO TO ALL OF YOU THAT HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS, WHERE WERE YOU WHEN THE WIFE NEEDED HELP! WHEN ALL THE PEOPLE THAT KNEW JESSE SO WELL KNEW WHAT SHE WAS FACING DID NOTHING TO HELP AND NOW WANT TO PUT THE BLAME ON EVERYONE ELSE, WHERE WERE YOU? DON'T LET THIS HAVE TO BE THE SOLUTION TO OTHER DOMESTIC CASES, IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE IS BEING ABUSED STEP UP AND DO SOMETHING, SPARE A FEW FAMILIES THE GUILT OF LIVING WITH TAKING A LIFE AND SOME FAMILIES THE HEARTACHE OF HAVING TO BURY A LOVED ONE.
Posted by: Justice Family Location: Ohio on Jul 3, 2007 at 12:24 PM
If anyone who has doubt about the accuracy of the information about the shooting death of our brother that is being reported by the Whitworth family, please give your information or doubts to the Police Officers. We would also like to talk to any of you. The news media at this site can let us know if you will be willing to give us your name and number. Right now we have talked to nobody except Jesse's wife. Her answers to our questions don't match the reports we are hearing on this station. Please, if anyone can give us any information about that night, about his stay in rehab or any other pertinent information about his relationship with Paul Whitworth,we would appreciate hearing from you. Our brother said many times that Paul was going to kill him. Please help us.
Posted by: chad Location: lexington on Jul 3, 2007 at 10:40 AM
there is something wrong here. whose home was he breaking into? was it his home, that was owned by inlaws? or was it the residence of the inlaws? why weren't the police called before the shooting? why was this pitiful mixed up wife riding both sides of the fence with these two men? i don't think this is as cut and dried as it's being reported so far. a woman who would be beaten and abused for 6 years, and her father watching it, who hasn't filed for divorce but feeds the drama? yes, it matters if he was waiting with a loaded gun. call the police. did he hack his way into this trailer with a machete, leaving the trailer visibly damaged?
Posted by: Tiffany Location: Mount Vernon on Jul 3, 2007 at 10:16 AM
To Joe in Lexington: I'd like to know exactly what you mean by this happened in a trailer. Are you assuming people who live in trailers are "less" than you?
Posted by: Voice of Reason Location: Lexington on Jul 3, 2007 at 10:03 AM
First off, you cannot blame WKYT for reporting this story how they did. When something happens, you try to interview whomever you can. In this case, the police stated from their report that someone came to the house with a machette and the homeowner shot him. The father in law (Paul Whitworth) told police what happened. The reason it may seem one sided to some is dead people can't talk. Maybe there is another side, but until then, you can only go by what the police report says and that is normally where the media gets their information as well as interviewing the victim (as stated in the police report).
Posted by: Zachary Location: Not in KY on Jul 3, 2007 at 09:41 AM
After reading the comments on the site I can honestly say I am very glad I moved from that area in KY a long time ago. I can tell just from the comments that people are still uneducated, illiterate and like to solve problems by fighting or shooting someone. I'm reading comments from people (like Tom Fuller from Ohio)that say he was shot in his own home. Where in the story does it state that? It says he was at his in laws home. READ THE STORY!!! When there is an ACTIVE restraining order and you do not adhere to that, you have violated the law. What part of that don't some of you understand? Don't blame drugs; blame the person who took the drugs. Responsibility for one's actions is the first step and you can't blame drugs. Drugs don't do bad things; people do bad things. Learn self control and be responsible; don't be stupid enough to get involved in drugs. If you're stupid enough to get involved in drugs you must accept the consequences and in this case...being shot by someone whose house you are entering illegally!! It's ironic his name is Justice because that is what got served.
Posted by: Jack Location: Pike County on Jul 3, 2007 at 09:40 AM
When the court order says "Don't go there, then Don't go there." Simple huh!
Posted by: c Location: fkt on Jul 3, 2007 at 08:16 AM
Good for the Father-in-Law!!! Someone has to protect the family since the law seems not to care!!! More people will have to do the same because let's face it, there are not enough law enforcement officiers to do the job. And the laws need to be changed to help in protecting families when an EPO is issued!
Posted by: anonymous Location: lex on Jul 3, 2007 at 08:11 AM
Before you cheer the death of this man (which is a little sick in itself), know who he is. I have personally observed this man in the drug rehab facility he was in just prior to his death. He was sincerely fighting an addiction that but for the grace of God, there go you or me. He loved his family and looked forward to completing his rehab, trying to make things right. The hatred of the inlaws toward him was never going to allow him that chance, and although I don't know the story of what really happened that led to his death (nor does anyone but the people there), I do know that there are some holes in the story as far as who was really threatened and why. Talk to his wife. Figure out why the same person who was supporting/visiting him in rehab felt threatened and where she actually was that night.
Posted by: darlene Location: London on Jul 3, 2007 at 07:56 AM
Thank GOD for safe of these kids and mom & father. Thank if he was going to do this to his to his family what he would have done to one of our POLICE officer when they arrived. Edna you have always been such a good person.GOD BLESS your family will be in my prayer.Friend
Posted by: Joe Location: Lexington on Jul 3, 2007 at 06:45 AM
This is what happens when you bring a knife to a gun fight...you lose. If the "other side" of the story needs to be told, my first question to the "other side" would be; why did he have a machette? And....of course this happened in a trailer...where else do we get stories like this?
Posted by: Susie Location: Lexington on Jul 3, 2007 at 06:14 AM
I read the comments the Justice family made. Does it really matter if the father ran off to get the gun or if he was waited with a loaded gun. Your family still went to this house knowing there was a court order to keep him away with a weapon. I don't think he took this weapon to protect himself. Too many times victims of this nature go through the court systems to gain protection to only have it fail and they end up the dead ones. I am sure you are suffering because you have lost a family member but I'm also sure this father-in-law is also suffering from what has happened to his daugther and grandchildren as well as dealing with the fact that he took a life. I'm sorry it had to come to this for both families but if someone had to die, I think, this time, it just might have been the one who needed to. My prayers are with both families for healing of all that has happened.
Posted by: wontsay Location: ky on Jul 3, 2007 at 02:09 AM
kyle is is the one going to gothrew the hell without his father you know for a fact he was not going there to kill them he love his boy you people will have to face jugdement dayfor doing what you did now i know power is alot moreon your side then his but god know and people unless you know the story keep your attaboy bologna to yourself
Posted by: bowman Location: ironton, ohio on Jul 3, 2007 at 12:14 AM
why is it so one sided?...isnt there two side to every story?...has anyone stopped to think about the times that she did things to him or about if she was so abused why did she beg for jesse to marry her? if she feared for her life why did she not seek a domestic shelter she states that he come there to harm her and her family BUT YET wants to attend jesses funeral services in his home town, is this just to taunt his family? look around people its not hard being a woman and cry your husband has abused you, he goes to jail no questions asked. In reality jesse was probably already in his home because the wife is telling his family this occured in his own residence. What happened to sending samples to the BCI. Quanico, VA specializes in these service for a reason, so true KILLERS go to jail where they belong.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Corbin on Jul 2, 2007 at 11:24 PM
I have known Jesse for the past five years and not one time have I ever seen him violent or even raise his voice. I do know that his father-in-law and him had never got along, and I agree with his family in ohio someone needs to question what happen because I will never believe what happened to be right.
Posted by: les Location: ohio on Jul 2, 2007 at 10:46 PM
i guess you missed the part about the 6yr old kid that they had together, well there is no hero's in this story just victims the father in law who shot him the wife who is a single parent know and the child who will never see his father again and is left with all this negative stuff being said about his dad.but if you only knew what was jesse's thinking when he went there that knight i am sure it was not to steal some thing as some on here like to belive but it was some clouded moment of desperation.i knew jesse from a distance and i did know that there was a past history of addiction in his life and for any family that has delt with the pain of a family member who is an addict then you know that it hurts when you hear about a family member refered to as dead beat and so on.but i guess when the pains of addiction come's to visit your family's it will be all right for everyone else to make those commints about your loved ones.and they refeer to this part of the country as the bible belt? well sound's to me like you better get your books out and start reading because like i said there is no hero's here just victims
Posted by: CommonSense Location: Southern Kentucky on Jul 2, 2007 at 09:54 PM
About time someone stood up for their rights to be secure in their homes and to protect those inside. The great equalizer has ruled in this case, and the judgement is final!
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Owensboro on Jul 2, 2007 at 09:34 PM
What is Mrs. Jesse Justice Jr. age? If she is as young as she "looks" in the picture provided. What business would Mr. Jesse Justice Jr. have with her? I just think there is something not right with this whole thing.
Posted by: Jon Location: Richmond on Jul 2, 2007 at 09:25 PM
I believe there are always several sides to a story. It's sad that someone died. However, I beleive strongly in the right to defend your home and family. It sounds as if the marriage/relationship was becoming violent. Especially, if one of the parties had an active restraining order. The husband should have just stayed away, even if he was asked to come to the residence. He paid the ultimate price! I hope investigation reveals the shooting was justified. However, I'm sure the family will have to deal with a Civil Suit.
Posted by: andy Location: ky on Jul 2, 2007 at 08:46 PM
he was not wearing shoes because when you are intent on killing someone ...shoes just dont matter .please do not make more out of this than what it plainly is ...a big abuser came over there with more abuse in mind and then some .he truly intended on killing someone .now we all understand that this is your family but come on ..be honest ...you truly believe that HE was some kind of victim ?this family had enough .and for them i am so glad that it is over .
Posted by: Tom Fuller Location: Ohio on Jul 2, 2007 at 07:48 PM
I knew this man for over 11 years and "Bub" certainly had his share of problems ranging from drugs to vandalism to generally a loss of direction, but he was not a violent person. But he did not deserve to be shot dead for going into his OWN home. There were plenty of alternative solutions to this problem, like calling the police but killing someone is not the answer. This man was not a stranger to the man that killed him, he was his son in law. A son in law that has lost direction, needed help - not three bullets ! It appears that a lot of folks below have made some rash opinions about this man, passed justice over dinner, or approves Vigilanty methods. But you take a minute and think - would you really shoot a member of your own family. The Laural County police department needs to find root cause for this offense and investigate every angle. Right now you're hearing from one side, who's standing up to tell Bubs side ? Whitworth should be in jail right now pending a through investigation. Who knows, someone else may come calling on that porth at night and be shot also.
Posted by: Justice Family Location: Ohio on Jul 2, 2007 at 07:43 PM
The picture displayed was taken this past Thanksgiving. The photo shows what appears to be a happy family, not a photo of a wife who feared for her life for the past 4 years as reported by the media. When problems arouse between our brother and his wife, she would often call the family and we would hear both of them arguing and fighting. She would be just as involved as he was, but it seems the male is always the one who is blamed.
Posted by: whitebass Location: Richmond on Jul 2, 2007 at 07:42 PM
What idiot brings a knife to a gunfight?
Posted by: A KENTUCKIAN Location: LONDON on Jul 2, 2007 at 07:38 PM
coming home to your wife ...with a machete ?...sorry justice family ..that is exactly what your brother got ...JUSTICE WAS SERVED .
Posted by: Sissy Location: London on Jul 2, 2007 at 06:35 PM
I have known Paul for a very long time HE IS NOT A PISTOL PACKING MAN!!! Our family knows he has been to the authorities and try to get some help from them. But did the courts care NO!!!!! If something from the authorities side had been done There would not have been a KILLING!! We are PRAYING for you PAUL & FAMILY
Posted by: susan Location: kentucky on Jul 2, 2007 at 06:24 PM
Who tipped the family mr. justice was coming? Could it have been Mr. Justice himself telling his wife he was coming? I know the justice family, and Jesse. Could the machete have been placed in his hand? After talking with the family, it is obvious there is discrepencies in the whitworth's version of what happened. Have any phone records been reviewed from the wife's phone? This could possibly shed some light on some of the facts. It seems a little early to not file any charges.
Posted by: anonymous Location: kentucky on Jul 2, 2007 at 06:13 PM
something sounds wrong with this story. if the family were tipped jesse was coming, if they were so afraid for their lives, why didn't they call the police? Why was her father waiting on him with a loaded gun? How do the police know he was invited there? Are they taking the words of this family? To me, it sounds like a lot of unanswered questions? I wonder what time they were "tipped off", and how much time elapsed before they called any officials. This sounds like vigilante justice!!!
Posted by: jdkfnskjfn Location: london on Jul 2, 2007 at 05:45 PM
this is bull crap. personally paul never really evn liked jessie to begin with this was just an excuse to kill him.
Posted by: WKYT STAFF Location: Lexington.KY on Jul 2, 2007 at 05:07 PM
Would the member of the Justice Family that has been sending in comments please send us another one with your e-mail address or call us on the WKYT Tip Line at 859-299-2727 we would like to hear your side of the story. Thank You
Posted by: KS Location: Lexington on Jul 2, 2007 at 04:41 PM
He did what he had to do to protect his family from someone who wanted to hurt them. I would do the same if this happened to me. No jury will ever convict him for self defense.
Posted by: Justice Family Location: Ohio on Jul 2, 2007 at 04:35 PM
Again, we are learning more about what happened to our brother by reading on the internet than by speaking to any authorities we have tried to contact. The reports being presented to the public are not what we were told by jesse's wife. She told us her father was taking the kids to her father's house to stay the night. we were told she didn't know jesse was there, now we hear the family was tipped he was coming to the house. we feel some thorough investigating needs to be done. the police don't need to take the stand "another dead beat" got what he deserved. Jesse may have been invited to the house. why wasn't he wearing any shoes? We wish some one would contact us about this matter. We have given our phone number to the authorities. It seems to us they are only interested in presenting a story that will gain public support, rather than search to find out what really happened. We were told the father around 70 years old ran to obtain a gun while a 46 year old was waving a machete around, only to return with a gun, and shoot the man 3 times. we feel the father was waiting on him with a loaded gun. something doesn't seem right. but, nobody seems to care about this. we hope you post our comments, and most of all contact our family to get some input about the information we have been told.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Corbin on Jul 2, 2007 at 04:32 PM
I hate to think that someone has to kill another person to protect his family and property. But he saved his daughter's life. If he hadn't have killed the man last night the man would have killed some of them. Because you can be sure that the man didn't go there to talk about the weather. He had a weapon and intended to kill.
Posted by: Justice Family Location: ohio on Jul 2, 2007 at 03:51 PM
For your information....there is 2 sides to every story, and the public is getting only one side of this story. The only thing Jesse's family has heard is he was shot and killed. The police have not contacted us after several attempts. There is many details that aren't being told. jesse was entering his own home, and his father in law was awaiting for him to arrive. the only information we have is from his wife, and her story changes each time we talk to her. someone once told me if you are going to be a liar....you have to have a good memory. her memory isn't so good. she told us he entered the house swinging a machete around at her 70 year old father who was able to run from a "crazed killer" to retrieve a gun from another room and return only to be calm enough to fire the first shot and hit his thumb to try and scare him away....yeah right!!! This wouldn't happen under calm circumstances. then we hear from her he didn't have shoes on. most people don't wear their shoes while at home. much of the info being told is biased. jesse has told family members that this would happen....he said if something happens to me, they killed me. they are going to kill me. we know his wife has been in contact with him lately, and we feel this was premeditated. the truth will likely not come out, because jesse did have problems in the past, and we don't feel the investigation will be taken seriously, or will be looked at in any manner except justice is done...just like the comments on here. they will be taking the side of their home town people, not jesse
Posted by: Sassy Location: IN on Jul 2, 2007 at 03:25 PM
I would say that if this "burglar" entered the home with a machete, then had in his mind to do something other than stealing some possessions. The domestic issues were more at play here than theft! Whitworth protected his family and in my opinion....he had every right to do so! Enough said!
Posted by: lisa Location: london ky on Jul 2, 2007 at 03:11 PM
i have known and went to church with this family my entire life .EXTREMELY GREAT PEOPLE .paul is a wonderful person that did what he had to do .i have just read this story and i do not need to know anything more .end of story ,he is in my book a great person and will get through this because he is a christian and only did what on instinct told him to do as a husband and father .GOD BLESS YOU ,PAUL WE LOVE YOU !!!!
Posted by: Joyce Location: Somerset, ky on Jul 2, 2007 at 02:44 PM
Thank God for the father-inlaw for stopping this man in his tracks.He probley saved his daughter's life.I wish my father had been with my sister when her boyfriend shot her 4x in front of two 11 yr olds.She was paralized from the waist down.She died two year's later from her injury's.She would still be here with her two kids.Her killer only got 15 yr's can get out in 13.And will kill again.He was only charged with first degree assalt.He should have been charged with attemped murder.She lived 1yr and 1day to long now were told he can't be charged with her murder.Her death was ruled a homiside.
Posted by: RIGGS Location: Lawrenceburg on Jul 2, 2007 at 02:04 PM
Good Job.. You get my vote.
Posted by: Heather Location: Florence on Jul 2, 2007 at 01:29 PM
I don't understand why we live in such a cruel world. Especally with family killing each other. It is just insane.
Posted by: Homer Location: Lexington on Jul 2, 2007 at 01:09 PM
Attaboy!
Posted by: C Location: Sinking Creek Area, London, KY on Jul 2, 2007 at 12:30 PM
I hope this sends a warning to the theives in the neighborhood that have been stealing cars, and breaking into stuff. The same thing will happen to you if you come to my house. I'd shoot a stranger even faster.
Posted by: Donna Location: Paris on Jul 2, 2007 at 12:23 PM
Way to go. Yeah for the homeowner. I am so tired of all the bad people in this world who hurt the innocent law abiding citizens. I just hope the law will protect the homeowner and does not try to punish him for protecting his propoerty and family.
Posted by: heather Location: jeffersonville on Jul 2, 2007 at 12:07 PM
I realize the father in law probably has mixed feelings regarding what he did. He did the right thing and I would of done the same. He protected his family and this was an act of self defense.
Posted by: Traci on Jul 2, 2007 at 10:51 AM
It scares me to think that there are people desperate enough to break into your house when you are home. Usually if they want to rob you they will wait till your gone. I see this story being repeated over and over in the future.
Posted by: Casey Location: Lexington on Jul 2, 2007 at 10:49 AM
It's about time. I would have done the same thing.
Posted by: AR Location: LONDON on Jul 2, 2007 at 10:09 AM
WAY TO GO.SAVED THE COUNTY THE TIME AND EXPENSE OF A COURT TRIAL THAT HE WOULD HAVE GOT 3 MONTHS FOR,THEN GO OUT AND DO IT AGAIN AND THIS TIME KILL SOME INNOCENT HOMEOWNER.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Lexington on Jul 2, 2007 at 10:06 AM
It's time for the american people to step up to the plate and defend themselves, I'm sure the suspect would have only gotten a hand slap and be back out on the streets. Let's make criminals think twice before doing this again. Homeowner, I'm glad you are safe. God bless you!
Posted by: christopher Location: liberty ky on Jul 2, 2007 at 10:05 AM
i would do the same thing if this would happen more offten to the people that break into houses it would happen less and less, seams that the law never try to put these peoeple in jail very long at a a time...thank good for our 2nd ament, rights to bear arms....
Posted by: Joan Location: KY on Jul 2, 2007 at 09:52 AM
nice to see
Posted by: David Location: Mount Sterling on Jul 2, 2007 at 09:42 AM
Unfortunately, this is going to become more common in the future. This man was defending his home, and while tragic, he did what any man would be expected to do in a rational society. Bravo, and Godspeed
Posted by: Ponder Location: Lexington/Downtown on Jul 2, 2007 at 09:32 AM
Now this is a prime example of Gun Control! He did not miss!
Posted by: GJ Location: KY on Jul 2, 2007 at 09:14 AM
One less dead beat our taxes won't have to support
Posted by: jan Location: hazard on Jul 2, 2007 at 08:59 AM
you have to protect your family. that serves himright.you have to protect your family.
Posted by: Henryk Location: Lake Placid on Jul 2, 2007 at 08:22 AM
Thank God the innocent were spared.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 2, 2007 at 08:12 AM
I say "Way to go homeowner"!
Posted by: LT Location: KY on Jul 2, 2007 at 07:49 AM
this would stop alot of this make the up to no goods think before they break in a house i would do the same thing
Posted by: John Location: Winchester on Jul 2, 2007 at 07:32 AM
good deal
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