Let’s talk about the latest scandal involving Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner, a powerful legal figure who mega-financier George Soros bank-rolled during her 2016 and 2020 elections. As reported by KSDK, a judge has moved to hold Gardner in “indirect criminal contempt” after her shocking failure to show up at a trial and a hearing in an armed robbery case. Judge Michael Noble didn’t mince words when he called Gardner’s office a “rudderless ship of chaos.” Both Gardner and Assistant Circuit Attorney Chris Desilets are now facing a finding of indirect criminal contempt, with a special prosecutor appointed to oversee their case.
It’s simply astounding how Gardner’s complete indifference and conscious disregard for the judicial process has been laid bare. Repeated failures of her office to show up at hearings demonstrate what Judge Noble rightfully called “disdain and disrespect for the judicial process.” This isn’t just a minor oversight – violating a court’s order shows clear intent to disregard the power and authority of the judicial system.
But this isn’t the first time Gardner has faced criticism. You may recall the case involving teenage volleyball player Janae Edmondson, who had both legs amputated after being struck by a car driven by Daniel Riely, who was under house arrest for a separate crime at the time. Gardner’s handling of the case was sharply criticized in February.
And who could forget the controversial prosecution of Mark and Patricia McCloskey during the 2020 Black Lives Matter riots? The couple, fearing for their lives, pointed guns at protesters who had broken through a gate on a private street and were approaching their property. Gardner was later dismissed from the case due to inappropriate fundraising emails about the high-profile case. Missouri Governor Mike Parson pardoned the McCloskeys in August 2021.
The current case in question, which prompted the judge to move for “indirect criminal contempt,” involved an 11-year-old girl who was shot in October 2020. Steven Linell Vincent Jr., the accused, has been waiting for his trial for three years. Vincent’s mother told KSDK, “We keep coming to court and the prosecuting attorney is not here.” This is a clear indication of the failings of Gardner’s office.
The contempt hearing for Gardner and Desilets is slated for May 30. But as we await the outcome, let’s consider the bigger picture. Gardner’s behavior and the repeated failings of her office are an affront to the judicial process and a disservice to the people she’s meant to represent. It’s time we demand better from our elected officials and hold them accountable for their actions. We must not allow our legal system to be undermined by those who choose to disregard its power and authority.
So, I ask you, what message does this send to our society when those who are supposed to uphold the law and protect the rights of citizens show such blatant disregard for their responsibilities? As the contempt case against Gardner and Desilets unfolds, let’s keep a watchful eye on the proceedings and ensure that justice is served. And let’s make it clear that we won’t tolerate such chaos and disrespect for the judicial process in our communities.
