ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (Court TV) — A couple accused of killing a man by throwing him off their second-story balcony pleaded not guilty on Tuesday as a judge warned them about the possible consequences if they are convicted.
Shawn and Nancy Durbin appeared virtually for their arraignments on Dec. 9, 2025.
Both are charged with murder in the death of Bobby Pennington, who died after he was found on the street outside the Durbins’ apartment with severe blunt force trauma to his face. A witness at the scene reportedly told officers they saw the Durbins pull Pennington into the apartment and force him over a handrail. Shawn also faces two counts of assault and a resisting arrest charge.
The couple appeared separately from the Hardin County Detention Center, where they have been held since their arrest earlier this month on $500,000 bail.
Judge Larry Ashlock warned both defendants that the murder charges could bring a life sentence or even the death penalty if they are found guilty.
Both Shawn and Nancy requested public defenders. Judge Ashlock said the public defender’s office must determine whether any conflict prevents them from representing both defendants.
The judge also noted the extensive discovery already provided to the defense: 2,286 pages along with the grand jury indictment.
Nancy and Shawn are scheduled to return to court for a pretrial conference on Jan. 20.
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