State ex rel. Ashcroft v. Crandall

I would quash the writ for reasons quite different from those expressed by the majority, and would direct respondent, to reconsider his prior order denying the State’s request for a jury. Because the majority’s description of the procedural stance of the underlying case makes it difficult to identify the critical issue, it is necessary to discuss the facts in some detail and review the chronology of events in the trial court.

By this original action relators seek to prohibit respondent, The Honorable William H. Crandall, from proceeding to trial on a misdemeanor in the Circuit Court of St.…