Missouri Attorney General Seeks Removal of Ray County Prosecutor

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced Tuesday that her office has filed a petition for a writ of quo warranto seeking the removal of Ray County Prosecutor Camille Johnston from office.

Following the filing, a judge approved a preliminary order immediately removing Johnston from her position as prosecutor while the legal proceedings continue.

Fox's Garrett Tenney explains.

Attorney General Hanaway said the decision to pursue Johnston's removal was based on what she described as a sustained pattern of misconduct and neglect of official responsibilities.

"When an elected official treats public office like their personal playground, betraying the public trust, ignoring legal obligations, and putting self-interest first, removal isn't a suggestion, it's a necessity," said Hanaway.

She went on to say Johnston's record reflects "a sustained pattern of misconduct and willful neglect" that has undermined confidence in the prosecutor's office and posed a threat to public safety.

Under Missouri law, the Attorney General may file a petition for a writ of quo warranto to remove a public official who has unlawfully held office or has forfeited the office through willful neglect, abuse of duty, or misconduct.

The preliminary order removes Johnston from office while the court considers the Attorney General's petition. The lawsuit will determine whether Johnston should be permanently removed from her position as Ray County Prosecutor.