Parson expresses concern over prosecutor's exclusion list

ST. LOUIS � Gov. Mike Parson said he is �deeply concerned� about St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner�s exclusion list of police officers.

Gardner said last week her office drew up a list of 28 police officers who will not be permitted as primary witnesses in criminal cases. She hasn�t said specifically why other than citing credibility concerns.

During an appearance in St. Louis on Tuesday, Parson said he believes the list is �beyond the scope� of Gardner�s job. Parson said he is concerned about crime victims and whether people accused of crimes will be prosecuted.

Parson is a Republican. Gardner, elected as St. Louis� top prosecutor in 2016, is a Democrat.

Gardner said Friday the list was created at the request of the police department. Hayden responded Saturday by saying no one from his department sought such a list.

Gardner responded later Saturday by saying if Hayden was unaware of the credibility concerns he should check with his own command staff.