St. Louis Circuit Attorney

In St. Louis, people whose loved ones were killed said they didn’t know what to expect from the police. This guide explains the process.

Then-Gov. Mike Parson appointed Gabe Gore as St. Louis circuit attorney in 2023. Gore then won a full term in August.

Tishaura Jones’ loss in last month’s mayor’s election is part of a trend in St. Louis-area politics over the past few years. After ascending to some of the most powerful posts in local government, several Black female political figures either left office or were defeated.

A state audit found former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner misspent nearly $60,000 from an office fund on items such as personal legal expenses, a Sam’s Club membership and disc jockey services.

Ramon Chavez-Rodriguez faces felony charges including DWI death of a law enforcement officer, exceeding the posted speed limit and operating a vehicle on a highway without a valid license.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office plans to appeal, which would likely block Dunn’s release.

Gabe Gore marked one year in office since taking over for Kim Gardner, who departed in 2023 while facing widespread criticism.

Dunn was convicted for a 1990 deadly shooting of a teen in St. Louis. Others involved in the case later admitted they lied about Dunn’s involvement. No DNA ever tied Dunn to the murder.

Republican Scott Fitzpatrick said his staff has tried to contact Gardner for months, but "it appears she has willfully evaded our many efforts to obtain information that only she can provide."

The Prosecuting Organizing Table, a coalition of racial justice groups, has released the first of a slew of reports aimed at holding prosecutors in St. Louis and St. Louis County accountable.