Domestic Violence And Disrespect For Police Allegations

A complaint has been issued by the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission alleging misconduct by an elected district court judge

On December 13, 2023, respondent was arrested for domestic violence against his spouse, Shawn Knoll.

The incident resulting in respondent’s arrest occurred around 7:30 am on that day when Shawn’s grandson (Jace McConnell, then age 12) resisted getting ready for school.

Respondent yelled at Jace and grabbed his face, tilting it up at respondent. Jace began crying. 

Shawn intervened. There was then physical contact between respondent and Shawn during which respondent hit or slapped Shawn’s face or head.

Respondent was arrested and charged with misdemeanor domestic violence in 58th District Court Case No. GH 23-003712-SM.

On March 26, 2024, respondent pled guilty to misdemeanor domestic violence in Case No. GH 23-003712-SM under MCL 769.4a.

Further alleged 

Police officers with Grand Haven Public Safety went to respondent’s house on the morning of December 13, 2023 in response to a 911 call they received during the altercation between respondent and Shawn. After interviewing Shawn and Jace, police arrested and interviewed respondent at another location.

During that interview, respondent threatened Grand Haven Public Safety Police Officer Matthew Padding with potential repercussions for false arrest, saying that if respondent was not prosecuted after the officers arrested him, an officer’s “ass would be in a sling for a false arrest.”

At various times during the interview respondent treated the police with disrespect.

After the police completed their interview of respondent, respondent told Grand Haven Public Safety Detective Eric Rasch “fuck you” as he left the interview room.

(Mike Frisch)