Bill > SB949

This bill creates a new criminal offense called judicial malfeasance in Missouri law, which occurs when a judge releases a prior or persistent offender during a criminal trial, and that released individual subsequently commits a felony. Under the proposed law, this would be classified as a class E felony, and the judge would be automatically referred to the commission on retirement, removal, and discipline for potential disqualification if charged, or removal and suspension by the Missouri Supreme Court if found guilty. The bill specifically references existing legal definitions of "prior offender" and "persistent offender" as defined in section 558.016 of Missouri statutes, which typically describe individuals with previous criminal convictions. By establishing this new offense, the bill aims to hold judges accountable for releasing potentially dangerous offenders who go on to commit additional serious crimes during their trial period, with significant professional consequences for the judge involved.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=484