A longtime Missouri circuit judge is set to step down following a judicial commission report that says he repeatedly brought Elvis Presley-themed antics into the courtroom.
Matthew E.P. Thornhill, a St. Charles County Circuit Court judge, has agreed to a disciplinary deal with a state oversight board. Under the agreement, he will receive a six-month unpaid suspension. After returning, he will remain on the bench for another 18 months before resigning.
The Missouri Commission on Retirement, Removal and Discipline of Judges found that Thornhill failed to maintain proper courtroom order and decorum. The report says that around Halloween he routinely wore an Elvis Presley wig while conducting court business. It also alleges he sometimes played Presley songs from his phone during proceedings, allowed litigants to choose how they would be sworn in—such as selecting a Presley song—and occasionally recited Elvis lyrics unrelated to the cases before him.
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Beyond the Elvis-related conduct, the commission accused Thornhill of inappropriate political activity from the bench. The report says he mentioned his political affiliation and made comments to witnesses, litigants, and attorneys about the locations of his “Thornhill for Judge” campaign signs.
The commission also alleged that Thornhill submitted a personal reference for a petitioner to another judge in 2024 in connection with a juvenile adoption case.
The agreement now awaits final approval by the Missouri Supreme Court. On Thursday, Nov. 20, the court agreed to accept 35 letters submitted in support of Thornhill’s character, the Associated Press reported.
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In a Nov. 12 letter to the court, Thornhill acknowledged the commission’s findings, writing that the allegations were “substantially accurate” and that the commission would be able to prove them. Addressing the Elvis incidents, he said he had been trying to lighten tense moments for litigants but now understands that the behavior could undermine the seriousness of courtroom proceedings.
He added that he regretted any disruption caused to the court and pledged to serve “with honor and dignity” going forward.
According to The New York Times, Thornhill is the longest-serving circuit judge in St. Charles County. His court biography highlights a range of personal interests, including Elvis, surfing, gardening, soccer, and spending time with his children and dog on the Katy Trail.
