Judge Determines Who Is In Charge As Mount Vernon's Mayor

A judge has reportedly ruled against former Mount Vernon Mayor Richard Thomas’ request for an injunction that would allow him to remain in office following his guilty plea to misdemeanor corruption charges.

Mount Vernon Mayor Andre Wallace.
Photo Credit: *Andre Wallace/Facebook*

Zak Failla

07/31/2019 4:06 p.m.

A hearing determined that Thomas is no longer the mayor, following a month of political strife and chaos at City Hall. Acting Mayor Andre Wallace officially took over following the decision on Wednesday, July 31.

On Monday, July 8, Thomas pleaded guilty to misappropriating nearly $13,000 in campaign funds and then proceeded to lie about them on government papers. Two days after that plea, the City Council voted to oust him and replace him with then-City Council President Andre Wallace.

The two have been back-and-forth since, with the mayoral mayhem causing confusion for local residents and within City Hall.

The judge ruled that Thomas was officially vacated from his position when he pleaded guilty, citing a clause in the Mount Vernon City Charter. Thomas was initially to vacate his position on Sept. 30, a date which was pushed forward by the Council.

Neither Wallace, nor Thomas, has made a statement following the ruling. This is a developing story. Check Daily Voice for updates.

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