Show-Me State Times

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed a petition to remove Benton County Treasurer Richard Renno from office. The action follows allegations of gross misconduct and violations of Missouri law, rendering Renno unfit for public service.

Attorney General Bailey stated, "When a public official can’t even continue to show up for work because they have been arrested for sex crimes, I will take immediate and permanent action." He emphasized the need to hold accountable those who sexually prey on children and restore public trust in Benton County.

The petition outlines serious charges against Renno, including being jailed during business hours while facing felony charges such as attempted enticement of a child and sexual misconduct with a minor under 15. It is also alleged that Renno sent inappropriate messages to a minor via the dating app Grindr during taxpayer-funded time.

According to the filing, these actions violate Missouri statutes § 54.100 and § 106.220 RSMo, which require treasurers to be present during business hours and mandate forfeiture of office due to neglect or criminal behavior.

As Renno is the sole employee in his office, his absences and misuse of work hours are considered an abandonment of responsibilities. The Attorney General's Office stepped in as local authorities lacked legal mechanisms for removal due to conflicting obligations or authority limitations.

A preliminary order has been requested to bar Renno temporarily from performing official duties. However, given the gravity of the allegations, Attorney General Bailey seeks a permanent writ of quo warranto for his immediate removal.

"By abandoning his office... Respondent has forfeited the right to serve," states the petition. Attorney General Bailey concluded by asserting there is no place in public service for child sex predators: "We will continue to act decisively whenever an elected official abuses their power or abandons their post."

Renno remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.