The quiet town of Riverview, Missouri, population 2,400, is reeling from a shocking betrayal of trust. Mayor Michael Cornell Jr. has been arrested and faces nine serious charges, shattering the community’s sense of security.
The charges are deeply disturbing: four counts of second-degree statutory sodomy, three counts of first-degree sodomy or attempted sodomy, one count of first-degree harassment, and possession of child pornography. Investigators allege these crimes occurred over a decade, spanning from December 2016 to 2026, impacting at least four victims, including two minors.
Evidence suggests Cornell forcibly committed sexual acts against at least three individuals, including a minor, and made unwanted sexual advances toward a fourth. A search of the mayor’s home, conducted earlier this month with the assistance of a K9 unit, reportedly uncovered child sexual abuse material on his phone.
The investigation began after another local agency brought allegations against Cornell to the St. Louis County Police. Details remain scarce regarding the initial tip, but the ensuing investigation quickly escalated, leading to the arrest and the charges now facing the mayor.
Just weeks before his arrest, Cornell publicly claimed that Riverview was being targeted by Ku Klux Klan and anti-Semitic graffiti. He asserted that hate groups were actively spreading their message of bigotry within the town.
However, a subsequent investigation revealed significant inconsistencies in Cornell’s accounts. No evidence supported his claims of KKK activity or organized hate groups responsible for the alleged graffiti. Current and former residents confirmed a historical absence of such groups in Riverview.
The mayor’s claims were particularly troubling given Riverview’s demographics: the town is 73% Black. The timing and nature of the accusations raised questions about whether Cornell was attempting to deliberately incite racial tension within his own community.
Acting Police Chief Toreyon Times described the charges against Cornell as “deeply disturbing.” Authorities are now urging anyone with information or who believes they may be a victim to come forward, fearing there may be additional unreported incidents.
The arrest has left Riverview grappling with a profound sense of disbelief and anger. The accusations against their mayor represent a devastating breach of trust and a dark chapter in the town’s history.
