Missouri House candidate charged in alleged plot to plant cocaine on opponent

Republican candidate for Missouri state representative Thomas Ross is facing federal charges for allegedly conspiring to plant cocaine and amphetamines on his political opponent, Louise Secker. The Justice Department announced the charges on Thursday, alleging that Ross instructed his former campaign manager to plant the drugs on Secker, whom he had defeated by just 33 votes in the Republican primary in House District 161.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, the former campaign manager provided the Joplin Police Department with a black nylon glove containing a small amount of cocaine and an Adderall capsule, which were later confirmed by FBI testing. Ross allegedly used his own Adderall prescription in the alleged plot, and FBI agents provided the campaign manager with a recording device during a meeting in July.

Missouri Republican Party Chairman Peter Kinder called the accusations "serious and deeply troubling" and urged Ross to withdraw from the race. U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price emphasized the importance of integrity and honesty in political campaigns, stating that his office will pursue violations of public trust when warranted.

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