Thomas Ross arrested over alleged plot to plant drugs on political opponent

Thomas Ross, the Republican nominee for Missouri House District 161, has been arrested following allegations of a conspiracy to plant drugs on his political opponent, Louise Secker.

According to an affidavit, Ross allegedly conspired to place cocaine and Adderall in Secker’s purse and vehicle to influence the primary election. Authorities state that Ross discussed these plans via text message with a former campaign manager and subsequently provided the substances during an in-person meeting. The campaign manager, who had informed the FBI and was wearing a recording device, documented the encounter.

Following the arrest, Missouri Republican Party Chairman Peter Kinder and the Jasper County Republican Central Committee have issued statements calling for Ross to immediately withdraw from the race. While acknowledging his right to due process, party leaders expressed that the seriousness of the allegations undermines the trust required for public office. Ross, who won the primary by 32 votes, has not yet stepped down.