Stanford was originally booked into DeKalb County Jail Dec. 16, 2024, on charges of reckless endangerment
According to a report by News Channel 5, Former District Attorney Chris Sanford of McMinnville has had charges against him dismissed in a case stemming from accusations that he fired shots during a police pursuit last year.
Stanford was originally booked into DeKalb County Jail Dec. 16, 2024, on charges of reckless endangerment after allegedly jumping from his truck during a chase and firing between three and five shots at a suspect of a triple homicide.
From the report:
“Stanford was indicted after prosecutors said he improperly intervened in a police pursuit of a triple-murder suspect in Smithville last year. According to the indictment, Stanford fired several rounds during the chase - including one that went into a nearby home — leading to a reckless endangerment charge.”
According to the report, a new order from the judge dismisses the case entirely, “noting that Stanford resigned from his post as District Attorney General in October,” according to the report.
With Stanford no longer serving as the district attorney, the court says there is no statutory basis for pursuing charges. The trial was originally set for January.
From WJLE in Smithville:
Criminal Court Judge Wesley Bray signed an order filed today (Thursday) Dec. 4, granting a motion from District Attorney General Bryant Dunaway requesting that a nolle prosequi (dismissal) be entered as to the defendant Christopher Robert Stanford on the charge pending in the criminal court, to wit: Reckless Endangerment committed Nov. 21, 2024.
According to the order, “This action is based upon the defendant (Stanford) having resigned his position as the elected District Attorney General for the 31st Judicial District, which was effective Oct. 31, 2025; the costs of this action are assessed to the defendant (Stanford) and shall be paid by the defendant (Stanford). The victim of the offense has been consulted and has no objection to this resolution.”
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