Ross was charged with conspiring to plant drugs in his opponent's purse or vehicle. Ross defeated Louise Secker in the August primary for the Republican candidacy by just 33 votes.
It's unclear who will replace him on the Republican ballot in November’s election. He was arrested at Joplin City Jail on Wednesday.
The press release from United State’s Attorney’s Office for the western district of Missouri states Ross asked his campaign manager to plant a black nylon glove with cocaine and adderall at Louise Secker’s house. The campaign manager provided the Joplin Police Department with the evidence, which eventually tested positive for cocaine and adderall. The campaign manager told investigators that he and Ross exchanged text messages where Ross requested he place the bag of drugs inside of the purse or vehicle of Secker. It was instructed to be done while Ross was on vacation. The Joplin Police Department contacted The Federal Bureau of Investigation on July 30.
The Jasper County Republican Central Committee and the Missouri Republican Party Chair called for Ross to take his name off the ballot after his arrest.
According to a Facebook post from the JCRCC, Ross has signed a court order requesting the withdrawal of his name from the ballot. It will now go to a court hearing to process. The Secretary of State’s office has yet to receive his order.
The post said the committee respected Ross’ decision and “believes it is in the best interest of his family and the constituents of House District 161.”
The committee said it remains committed to providing voters with a strong Republican candidate.
KRPS previously interviewed Ross for his candidacy for Joplin School Board
