A judge from Missouri has decided to resign following a controversial incident involving an Elvis Presley wig and music during court sessions. Judge Matthew Thornhill, who operates in the St. Charles County Circuit Court, has reached an agreement to end his time on the bench early amid disciplinary actions.
Details of the Agreement
As part of a deal with the Missouri Commission on Retirement, Removal, and Discipline of Judges, Thornhill will face a six-month unpaid suspension. Afterwards, he will serve an additional 18 months before resigning. This agreement is awaiting approval from the Missouri Supreme Court.
Incident Overview
The judge’s actions included wearing a plastic Elvis wig and playing Elvis music during court proceedings. Although Thornhill expressed that his intention was to lighten the atmosphere, he acknowledged that this might have compromised the proceedings’ integrity. He stated, “I now recognize that this could affect the integrity and solemnity of the proceedings.”
- Judge’s Background: Matthew Thornhill has been a prominent figure at the St. Charles County Circuit Court since his election as an associate circuit judge in 2006.
- Past Disciplinary Actions: Thornhill received a reprimand and fine in 2008 for reducing charges after a woman offered him a signed baseball.
- Current Case: The Commission has highlighted not only the Elvis references but also his comments involving political affiliations during official court matters.
Judicial Conduct Standards
The Missouri Commission emphasized that Thornhill’s behavior violated rules which are crucial for maintaining order and public confidence in the judiciary. This includes his casual mentions of Elvis lyrics and the idea of swearing in witnesses to Elvis music, which were deemed inappropriate.
The disciplinary action followed an undisclosed complaint, and the judge maintains that while he made informal comments about his campaign, they did not influence his judicial decisions. However, he conceded that offering a character letter in an adoption case constituted an abuse of his position.
Reactions from the Legal Community
Local attorneys have responded with mixed feelings to Thornhill’s actions. Brendan Roediger humorously remarked on the situation, suggesting that it called into question Thornhill’s role as a judge.
As this matter unfolds, it highlights the importance of judicial decorum and the expectations placed upon those in the legal profession.
