Assistant District Attorney resigns after arrest in court

June 28 – An assistant DeSoto County Attorney arrested Thursday for being intoxicated in the courtroom has tendered his resignation.

Thomas Waller was arrested in the courtroom Thursday and held in contempt of court. Waller was booked into the DeSoto County Adult Detention Center late Thursday afternoon.

Circuit Court Judge Celeste Wilson ordered Waller held when, as she stated in her order that, Waller was observed to be in a visibly intoxicated state, smelled of alcohol, and was making incoherent statements. 

Wilson declared Waller to be in direct criminal contempt and ordered him held for 11 days in jail, with all but eight hours to be suspended. Waller was also fined $100 and ordered to report to the Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program and follow their recommendations.  

Jail records show that Waller was released early Friday morning.

Friday, District Attorney Matthew Barton issued the following statement:

“As of this morning, I have accepted the resignation of Mr. Waller, effective immediately. This is a regrettable situation that does not reflect the high standards for performance that are expected of this office. And while I cannot comment on the physical, emotional, or mental health of a former employee, I do hope he receives the support he needs for his well-being during this difficult time.”