Show-Me State Times

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has initiated legal proceedings to remove St. Louis Sheriff Alfred Montgomery from office. The action involves a 90-page writ of quo warranto, citing extensive misconduct and abuse of authority by Montgomery. A preliminary order has been issued for his removal pending litigation.

Attorney General Bailey stated, "For weeks, my office has received reports of misconduct, malfeasance, and unethical behavior regarding St. Louis Sheriff Montgomery." He added that after investigating and reviewing evidence supporting these allegations, he had no choice but to act. "I gave Sheriff Montgomery the chance to do what is right by the people of St. Louis, and he declined. This is about restoring the rule of law."

The petition includes six counts against Montgomery:

Count One accuses him of nepotism for hiring his brother as a deputy sheriff, violating Missouri's constitutional ban on nepotism in public office.

Count Two alleges that Montgomery ordered deputies to arrest Acting Jail Commissioner Tammy Ross without statutory authority.

Count Three claims an illegal arrest and disarmament of Darryl Wilson, a licensed private security guard.

Count Four states that since taking office, Montgomery failed at least 59 times to transport inmates for essential medical and mental health care.

Count Five accuses him of using his position for personal gain by having deputies babysit his children and use government vehicles for personal errands.

Count Six alleges financial mismanagement involving taxpayer money spent on unnecessary items like golf carts and gold-plated badges.

Bailey emphasized the need for accountability: "This level of misconduct and instability demands immediate accountability," he said. He stressed the importance of leadership that supports law enforcement officers in St. Louis rather than neglecting responsibilities shortly after assuming office.

The petition aims to restore confidence in elected officials across Missouri by upholding the rule of law.