Judge Matthew EP Thornhill, a circuit judge in St. Charles County, Missouri, has resigned following disciplinary action by the State of Missouri's Commission on Retirement, Removal and Discipline of Judges. The disciplinary measures stemmed from Thornhill's conduct in court, which included references to Elvis Presley and wearing an Elvis-themed wig during proceedings.
The Commission's report indicated that Judge Thornhill routinely wore an Elvis Presley wig, specifically around October 31st, while conducting court business. Images in the report showed the judge on the bench wearing the wig, characterized by its black pompadour, along with sunglasses.
Additionally, the report stated that Judge Thornhill occasionally offered litigants or witnesses the option of being sworn in while Elvis Presley music played from his phone. He also made references to the singer during court proceedings, citing details such as Presley's birth or death dates and lyrics from his songs.
In a letter dated November 12 to the Missouri Supreme Court, Judge Thornhill explained his actions, stating his intent was to "add levity at times when I thought it would help relax litigants." He further acknowledged, "I now recognize that this could affect the integrity and solemnity of the proceedings." Thornhill was the longest-serving circuit judge in St. Charles County.