A judge in St. Charles County, Missouri, is set to step down following a scathing judicial report that accused him of repeatedly wearing an Elvis Presley wig in court and playing the singer’s music during proceedings. Matthew E.P. Thornhill, a circuit judge, has reached an agreement with the state disciplinary board, resulting in a six-month suspension without pay, followed by 18 months of return to duties, and then his resignation as per court documents.
The Commission on Retirement, Removal, and Discipline of Judges in Missouri highlighted Thornhill’s failure to maintain courtroom decorum. The report detailed instances where he wore an Elvis wig during official duties, allowed litigants to choose how they wanted to be sworn in, including selecting Presley songs, and recited unrelated Elvis lyrics during hearings, leaving attendees puzzled.
The proposal for his resignation is currently under review by the Missouri Supreme Court, which recently received 35 letters praising his character, contrasting with the commission’s findings of misconduct. Investigators noted Thornhill’s repeated breaches of courtroom dignity, such as wearing an Elvis wig during official proceedings and allowing litigants to choose Presley tracks for swearing-in ceremonies.
Furthermore, the commission alleged that Thornhill engaged in improper political activity by referencing his political affiliation and discussing campaign signs during court sessions. He was also accused of providing a personal reference in a juvenile adoption case, which is prohibited for judges.
In a letter to the state’s highest court dated November 12, Thornhill acknowledged the accuracy of the allegations and expressed regret for his actions. He admitted to attempting to lighten the atmosphere in court but recognized that it could compromise the integrity of the proceedings. Thornhill promised to serve the people of Missouri with honor and dignity in the future.
Thornhill, the longest-serving circuit judge in St. Charles County, is known for his love of Elvis, surfing, gardening, soccer, golfing with his children, and running with his dog on the Katy Trail, according to his court biography.