Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District / Dec 15, 2020
State ex rel. Ernie L. Williamson, Relator, vs. Hon. Troy A. Cardona, Respondent.
Ernie Williamson sought a writ of mandamus to compel Respondent Judge Troy A. Cardona to release him on probation after he successfully completed a long-term substance abuse treatment program. The trial court had denied his release based on prior conduct violations. The Eastern District granted the writ, finding that the trial court's denial of probation was an abuse of discretion because it was not supported by substantial competent evidence.