Missouri Judge Agrees to Suspension and Resignation Deal Over Elvis-Related Court Behavior
A Missouri judge in suburban St. Louis, Judge Matthew Thornhill, has agreed to a deal that would result in a six-month unpaid suspension and an additional 18 months on the bench before resigning from the St. Charles County Circuit Court. The agreement, pending before the Missouri Supreme Court, was reached to avoid a disciplinary hearing. Thornhill had worn an Elvis Presley wig in court, played the singer's music from his phone during proceedings, and made references to Elvis in court, which were deemed to affect the integrity and solemnity of the proceedings.
The Commission on Retirement, Removal, and Discipline faulted Thornhill for his Elvis-related behavior, as well as for discussing politics from the bench. Thornhill, the longest-serving judge in St. Charles County, had a history of disciplinary issues, including a previous reprimand and fine in 2008. In the latest case, he was cited for mentioning his political affiliation and preferred election candidates during court business, as well as offering a character letter in an adoption case, which was deemed an abuse of his position.
Thornhill acknowledged his mistakes and expressed his commitment to serving the people of Missouri with honor and dignity in the future. The Missouri Supreme Court accepted 35 letters in support of Thornhill's character, highlighting his intention to add levity to court proceedings but recognizing the impact it had on the integrity of the judiciary. Despite his past disciplinary issues, Thornhill remains dedicated to upholding the standards of the judiciary and serving the community with respect and professionalism.