Overview
- Judge Matthew Thornhill accepted a disciplinary agreement calling for a six-month unpaid suspension followed by 18 months on the bench and then resignation.
- The Missouri Supreme Court is reviewing the deal and has accepted 35 character letters as part of its consideration.
- A judicial commission found he wore an Elvis wig around Halloween, played Presley songs in court and recited unrelated lyrics, violating decorum rules.
- The panel also cited improper political comments from the bench and a personal reference he submitted in a 2024 juvenile adoption matter.
- In a Nov. 12 letter, Thornhill acknowledged the allegations as substantially accurate, saying he intended to add levity but now recognizes the conduct undermined courtroom solemnity.