Change of venue denied for man accused of killing Scott County deputy; conditions of confinement modified

SCOTT COUNTY, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — Steven Sheangshang, who is facing charges for allegedly killing Scott County Deputy Caleb Conley during a traffic stop on I-75 in Georgetown in May 2023, appeared in court over Zoom on Thursday from the Bourbon County Jail. His defense sought to move the trial venue from Scott County to Jefferson County, citing potential prejudice.

To support the change, the defense called Professor Thomas Beisecker, who conducted a survey in July and August 2024. The survey revealed that 82-90% of Scott County residents recognized Sheangshang’s case, with 84.2% believing he was definitely or probably guilty, and 45.4% thinking he should receive the death penalty. In Jefferson County, awareness and presumptions of guilt were significantly lower.

The court denied the motion to transfer the case to Jefferson County, noting it was not sufficiently similar to Scott County in demographics and suggested Shelby County as an alternative. Both sides have until November 14 to consider this option, when a Zoom hearing will take place.

Additionally, the defense requested an amendment to Sheangshang’s confinement conditions, arguing that solitary confinement was negatively impacting his mental and physical health. Previously, Sheangshang was limited to one hour outside his cell daily and allowed one book per month. The court partially granted this motion, allowing extended time outside his cell and access to more reading materials, though he must remain in isolation due to other pending charges.

Sheangshang’s trial remains scheduled for early next year. A separate hearing in December will address a defense motion to remove the death penalty from the case.