Mayor Michael Cornell Jr.
Mayor Michael Cornell Jr.
Michael Cornell Jr., the Mayor for the City of Riverview, has been charged with multiple sex crimes, according to newly-filed court records.

The St. Louis Prosecuting Attorney's Office has charged Cornell with four counts of second-degree statutory sodomy, three counts of first-degree sodomy or attempted sodomy, one count of first-degree harassment and one count of possession of child pornography.

In total, Cornell has been charged with nine felony offenses.

The St. Louis County Police Department reports Cornell is in custody as of Thursday afternoon. The arrest comes after recent searches by police at Riverview City Hall and Cornell's home.

According to St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Price Smith, it's believed there are at least four victims, including at least one child. Charges stem from alleged incidents as far back as January 2016. Authorities said they began investigating allegations against Cornell last month.

Cornell, 39, has been a figure in Riverview government since 2022, first as a trustee, then elected as the city's mayor in April 2024.

This is not the first time Cornell has faced controversy; multiple lawsuits have previously been filed against the city of Riverview, claiming misconduct and sexual harassment by him.

St. Louis County Police Lt. Colonel Jerry Lohr said during a Thursday news conference on the charges, "I think he portrayed himself as an individual who had power, who had prestige, and I think he used that to entice some of his victims."

Price Smith says there is the possibility of additional victims.

"If you are a victim or you know someone who is, please, please come forward," said Price Smith. "Please contact the St. Louis County Police Bureau of Crime Against Persons.". The bureau's number is 314-615-5400.

The Riverview Police Department has released a statement following the mayor's arrest, calling the charges brought against Cornell "disturbing."

"No matter of your position or title, no one is above the law. Anyone who commits offenses and believes they do not have to abide by the law can expect they will be fully prosecuted," said Captain Toreyon Times.

Cornell will be jailed on a $1 million cash-only bond, according to Missouri court records. A bond review is set for Jan. 22, followed by a preliminary hearing for Feb. 18.