Prosecuting Attorney
About Us
Our Commitment
At the Clay County Prosecutor's Office, our primary commitment is ensuring the safety and well-being of our community while serving the public. We understand the importance of maintaining trust and confidence in the criminal justice system by upholding the law and protecting the rights of all individuals.
Our team of experienced attorneys and dedicated support staff is proactive in seeking justice for victims of crime and holding offenders accountable for their actions. We work in close collaboration with law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and victims' advocacy groups to provide comprehensive support and resources to those affected by crime.
We believe in transparency and open communication with the public we serve. Our office is not just available, but readily accessible to answer questions, provide information, and address concerns about the criminal justice system and our services.
In addition to our criminal justice efforts, we recognize the importance of supporting families in need. Our Child Support staff works diligently to ensure that children receive the financial support they deserve, helping to create a stable and nurturing environment for them to grow and thrive.
As public servants, we are dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of Clay County residents. We will continue to work daily to build a safer, more just community for all. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please don't hesitate to contact the Clay County Prosecutor's Office. We are here to serve you.
​
​
The Clay County Prosecutor's Office by the Numbers:
17
Skilled Attorneys
12
Professional Support Staff Members - Including Two Dedicated Investigators
12
Child Support Staff Members
22,863
Total Case Submissions filed in 2023 - Includes Traffic-Related Filings and Ordinances
5,145
Felony and Misdemeanor Cases Handled in 2023
Departments
The Clay County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is comprised of a team of dedicated public servants working hard to keep the people of Clay County safe.
We have two primary divisions in the office.
Criminal Division
The Criminal Division is responsible for the prosecution of misdemeanor and felony level crimes that occur within Clay County, Missouri. Crimes prosecuted range from traffic offenses to violent homicides.
Police investigate crimes, make arrests and apply for charges at the prosecuting attorney’s office. Prosecutors then make formal charging decisions based upon the evidence available and Missouri law. If there is insufficient evidence to prove a crime has been committed by the associated suspect, prosecutors may request additional evidence or lab tests prior to determining whether formal charges should be filed. They may also refuse the charges on the grounds of insufficient evidence.
Our team members work with victims who have been affected by all types of crime and partner with our Victim Services team to ensure they have the support they need to navigate the criminal justice system.
Child Support Enforcement
The Family Support Division of the Prosecutor’s Office serves the families in our community, securing financial support for children’s well-being through legal actions involving child support.
​
We believe every child deserves the love and support of both parents. This division is dedicated to ensuring children of Clay County have support they need from both parents. We assist parents in establishing paternity, collecting child support and medical support orders.
About Zachary Thompson
Meet Zachary Thompson, a dedicated public servant who has spent his entire legal career fighting for justice in Clay County. As your Prosecuting Attorney, Zach is committed to holding the guilty accountable, protecting the innocent, and preserving the dignity of victims and their families. He believes in enforcing the laws of Missouri without fear or favor, ensuring our communities are safe and justice is served.
Born and raised in unincorporated Clay County, just outside Kearney, Zach grew up with a strong sense of community, family, and honesty. These values, instilled by his parents, guide him daily as he steps into the courthouse, ready to serve the people of Clay County.
After graduating from the University of Missouri at Kansas City Law School, Zach dedicated over a decade as an Assistant Prosecutor in Clay County before being elected as Prosecuting Attorney in 2022. Throughout his career, he has successfully prosecuted a wide range of serious criminal cases. But his commitment to the community extends beyond the courtroom. Zach spearheaded the C.E.A.S.E. (Citizen Education Against Scams and Exploitation) initiative, a proactive program designed to educate and protect citizens from falling victim to scams, ensuring their safety and security.
Zach's leadership and dedication to the legal community have been recognized through his service as President of the Clay County Bar Association, President of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association Criminal Section, and as a member of the Missouri Bar Board of Governors. His extensive experience as a municipal prosecutor for several towns, including Kearney, Gladstone, Holt, Richmond, and Wood Heights, further underscores his experience and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
When he's not fighting for justice, Zach enjoys spending time with his wife (whom he met while they were both working at the Cracker Barrel in Liberty) and their two sons. As an active member of his son's Lion Scout Den, Zach is dedicated to making Clay County a safe and thriving place for families to live and work.
With Zachary Thompson as your Prosecuting Attorney, you can trust that your community is in capable, caring hands. He will continue to work tirelessly to ensure justice is served and Clay County remains a great place to call home.