State v. Williams

OPINION

ANGELA T. QUIGLESS, Judge.

The State of Missouri (the State) appeals the trial court’s order dismissing Percy Williams’ (Williams) case with prejudice for failure to prosecute. The issue in this case is whether the trial court can dismiss a criminal case with prejudice for failure to prosecute absent a speedy trial violation. Because the trial court does not have said authority, we reverse.

I. BACKGROUND

On March 23, 2012, Williams was charged with possession of a controlled substance in violation of Section 195.202,1 a class C felony. On November 28, 2012, Williams notified the State and…