A.G. Josh Hawley will retain independent counsel to investigate allegations of withholding evidence

On Monday, Attorney General Josh Hawley announced that his office intends to retain independent counsel to investigate alleged wrongdoing by the Koster Administration in connection with the 2012 civil lawsuit over the death of Anthony Lamar Smith.

On September 18, the attorney for the family of Mr. Smith sent a letter to the Attorney General’s Office alleging withholding of evidence by the city of St. Louis and officials in the Koster Administration.

The Attorney General’s Office has conducted an initial review of the family’s allegations.

Because of the review, Hawley says he will appoint an independent counsel with expertise in legal ethics and governmental wrongdoing to investigate the allegations.

“These allegations deserve a full, accurate and transparent accounting,” Hawley said.

Hawley said the counsel will have full access to files and personnel to ensure a comprehensive and unbiased review of the potential wrongdoing.