Basehor city attorney vows to fight charges
An attorney representing John Thompson — the city of Basehor’s attorney for 19 years — said his client would fight charges leveled against him in Leavenworth County District Court.
Thompson is charged in district court with domestic battery and disorderly conduct, both misdemeanors. The charges stem from an alleged incident involving Thompson’s ex-wife at Thompson’s Leavenworth home on March 20.
“He’ll absolutely plead not guilty,” said Carl Cornwell, Thompson’s attorney. “It didn’t happen.”
Cornwell said it would not be prudent to discuss specifics of the case until it goes to trial. However, the Olathe attorney said he fully expects a not guilty verdict when the case is concluded.
“We’re confident that when the facts are presented to a jury, John will prevail,” Cornwell said.
Basehor city officials said they would not comment on the case against their attorney or his future as the city’s legal representation.
Cornwell said Thompson would continue working for the city until notified otherwise.
Thompson has not made a first appearance and a timeline for court appearances has not yet been set.
Leavenworth County prosecutor Pat Cahill said an outside judge must be found to preside over the case before it moves forward.
“Since (Thompson) is an attorney in Leavenworth County, we need a judge outside this county,” Cahill said.
The city attorney is a position annually appointed by the Basehor mayor with City Council confirmation. The appointments generally take place in May.