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Missouri House candidate accused of conspiring to plant cocaine on opponent

Missouri House candidate accused of conspiring to plant cocaine on opponent

Summary

Thomas Ross, a Republican candidate in Missouri, is charged with plotting to plant cocaine and amphetamines on his political opponent after narrowly winning a primary election. Ross allegedly told his former campaign manager to hide drugs in the opponent’s belongings to harm her reputation.

Key Facts

  • Thomas Ross is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
  • He is accused of instructing his former campaign manager to plant drugs on Louise Secker, his opponent in the Missouri House District 161 primary.
  • Ross won the primary by only 33 votes.
  • The former campaign manager gave police a glove containing cocaine and Adderall, a prescription stimulant.
  • Text messages from Ross allegedly showed him directing the drug planting while he was out of state.
  • The former manager wore a recording device during a meeting with Ross, where they discussed making an anonymous tip.
  • Missouri GOP Chairman called the accusations serious and asked Ross to quit the race.
  • The U.S. Attorney’s Office said it will keep working to ensure fair elections and punish violations of public trust.
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