Missouri Judge Matthew Thornhill to Resign Following Courtroom Conduct Concerns

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — November 22, 2025 — Missouri judge Matthew Thornhill has agreed to resign after wearing Elvis Presley wigs during court proceedings, raising concerns about judicial integrity and courtroom decorum, officials said Friday.

Thornhill will first take an unpaid leave of absence before officially stepping down from his position, according to court authorities. The decision follows a series of disciplinary reviews prompted by complaints about his conduct while presiding over cases in St. Louis.

The judge’s choice to don wigs resembling those worn by the late singer Elvis Presley during hearings drew criticism from legal professionals and court officials who said the behavior undermined the seriousness expected in judicial settings. The wigs were reportedly worn on multiple occasions, which led to formal inquiries into whether Thornhill’s actions violated ethical standards for judges.

Court officials emphasized that maintaining the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary is paramount. The unusual courtroom behavior was viewed as detracting from the dignity of the legal process and potentially affecting public confidence in the court system.

Thornhill’s resignation follows a disciplinary process that included internal reviews and discussions with judicial oversight bodies. While the specific details of the disciplinary measures have not been publicly disclosed, sources familiar with the matter confirmed that the judge agreed to resign as part of a resolution to the concerns raised.

Missouri’s judicial conduct commission has the authority to investigate and sanction judges whose behavior is deemed inappropriate or unethical. In this case, the commission’s involvement underscored the seriousness with which the judiciary treats issues related to courtroom professionalism.

The St. Louis court system did not immediately provide a timeline for Thornhill’s departure but indicated that the transition would occur in the near future following his unpaid leave. The court also noted that efforts are underway to ensure continuity in the cases overseen by Thornhill.

Legal experts say that judges are expected to maintain a standard of conduct that reflects the gravity of their role in administering justice. Actions that could be perceived as frivolous or distracting may erode public trust and invite scrutiny from oversight bodies.

Thornhill’s case has sparked conversations within Missouri’s legal community about the boundaries of judicial behavior and the importance of upholding courtroom decorum. While some observers noted the judge’s actions as unconventional, the prevailing view among officials was that such conduct was inappropriate for a judicial setting.

No criminal charges have been reported in connection with Thornhill’s conduct, and the resignation appears to be a resolution focused on preserving the integrity of the judicial office rather than addressing legal violations.

As the court prepares for Thornhill’s departure, attention will turn to appointing or electing a successor who can restore confidence and maintain the standards expected of Missouri’s judiciary.