Judge Resigns Over Elvis-Themed Conduct in Court
A judge in Missouri has stepped down following a series of unconventional behaviors in the courtroom. Reports indicate that Judge Matthew Thornhill frequently referenced Elvis Presley during hearings, played his music during his swearing-in ceremony, and even donned an Elvis-style wig.
The St. Charles County Circuit Court judge resigned on Friday after a disciplinary panel determined that he often wore an Elvis-like pompadour wig and aviator sunglasses while sentencing, especially around Halloween. According to court documents:
During his swearing-in, he allegedly dressed in a King costume, further emphasizing his fixation.
Details from the court proceedings reveal that Thornhill allowed litigants and witnesses to choose how they would be sworn in before testifying. One option was the playing of Elvis Presley’s music from his cell phone. He often mentioned Elvis in a way that was deemed irrelevant to the court process, such as discussing the singer’s birth or death dates.
The Missouri Retirement, Dismissal, and Discipline Commission concluded that Thornhill “failed to maintain order and decorum in the courtroom.” This wasn’t the only issue; he also reportedly expressed support for his preferred political candidate during court, which is against procedural rules regarding political conduct.
Additionally, he was noted to provide “personal witnesses” in cases linked to parental rights and adoption, violating rules forbidding judges from serving as character witnesses.
When questioned about his whimsical Elvis-related antics, Thornhill suggested that the wig and music aimed to “add levity” and make litigants feel more at ease. However, he acknowledged that these actions disrupted the solemnity expected in court settings.
Ultimately, Thornhill accepted a six-month unpaid suspension, leading to an irrevocable resignation. Following this, he will be prohibited from holding any judicial position in Missouri.
Attempts to reach Thornhill for comment have been unsuccessful.
