The Kansas Attorney General’s Office has secured guilty pleas from former Neosho County Attorney Linus Thuston on charges of misuse of public funds and a sales tax violation. The conviction for misuse of public funds necessitates forfeiture of office, leading to Thuston's resignation on August 13, 2024.
“There have been many allegations against Mr. Thuston, some criminal and some not. We have charged him with crimes that we have sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. All allegations have been referred to the Office of the Disciplinary Administrator to consider whether Thuston’s conduct has complied with his ethical duties as an attorney,” said Associate Deputy Attorney General Jessica Domme.
Judge Merlin Wheeler sentenced Thuston to serve 30 days in jail followed by 12 months of probation after accepting the pleas. Additionally, Thuston was ordered to pay a $2,500 fine and $617.50 in restitution. As a special condition of probation, he is prohibited from serving in public office and acting as a fiduciary while on probation.
“Mr. Thuston’s conviction should stand as an example to others. No matter who you are or what office you hold, everyone must follow the law,” stated Attorney General Kris Kobach.