Missouri state legislative candidate accused of trying to plant cocaine on opponent
Summary
A Republican candidate for the Missouri House, Thomas Ross, was arrested for allegedly trying to frame his primary opponent, Louise Secker, by planting drugs on her. Ross is charged with planning to distribute cocaine and Adderall to his former campaign manager to plant on Secker. Ross narrowly won the primary but faces calls to drop out.Key Facts
- Thomas Ross, a Republican candidate in Missouri House District 161, was arrested for attempting to frame his opponent Louise Secker with drugs.
- Ross gave cocaine and Adderall to his former campaign manager to hide in Secker's purse or car.
- The plan was discussed through text messages where Ross asked for updates and approved anonymous tips.
- The Joplin police alerted the FBI, which provided the former manager with a recording device to capture conversations with Ross.
- Ross has been charged with conspiring to distribute a controlled substance.
- Secker lost to Ross by just 33 votes in the August Republican primary.
- The incumbent representative is not running for reelection, making this an open seat.
- Missouri GOP chair Peter Kinder urged Ross to withdraw from the race due to the serious nature of the arrest.
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