Former Neosho County Attorney Linus Thuston is facing six felony charges of perjury and witness intimidation filed by special prosecutor Branden Bell in Neosho County District Court. The charges stem from Thuston’s testimony in an opioid drug case where shocking revelations were made about his misconduct as the county’s top prosecutor. The case revealed that Thuston leaked information about police investigations to a confidential informant in exchange for nude photos.
Thuston had avoided consequences for years despite evidence of financial and criminal misconduct provided by local law enforcement and county officials. He was found to have convinced about 50 women to send him nude images for services through his private legal practice and had engaged in various felonies including theft, witness intimidation, and preventing reporting of victimization.
Despite facing misdemeanor convictions earlier this year, Thuston was allowed to retire from office with full benefits in an unusual plea deal orchestrated by the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. Former Neosho County sheriff Jim Keath welcomed the decision to charge Thuston with felony crimes, highlighting the impact of his actions on victims and the justice system. The case brings renewed attention to the ethical and criminal misconduct of a public official.
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Photo credit kansasreflector.com
