Missouri State Representative Anthony Ealy Jr., 32, was arrested Wednesday night in Jefferson City, hours after securing re-election. He faces charges of fourth-degree assault and disturbing the peace following allegations of trespassing at an apartment complex and threatening a couple.
Witnesses reported Ealy caused a disturbance around local businesses and threatened bystanders before police were called to an apartment complex shortly before midnight. According to a police report, Ealy allegedly threatened a man by referencing a gun and stating, "I'm going to kill you."
Police noted that Ealy appeared to be experiencing a panic attack and a mental health episode during the incident. The report also indicates that Ealy had caused a disturbance in the area the previous night.
Ealy, who represents Jackson County’s District 36, won his re-election bid with 68 percent of the vote. This is not the first time Ealy has faced internal party issues. In the spring of 2025, House Democratic minority leader Ashley Aune removed him from all committee assignments, stating it was so he could focus on personal matters. Aune's chief of staff indicated there are no plans to reinstate Ealy's committee assignments for the upcoming legislative session.
State Democratic leadership had reportedly encouraged Ealy not to run for re-election, but he chose to seek another term. He was first elected to the Missouri legislature in 2022, becoming the youngest representative in his district's history.
Ealy remains in custody at the Cole County Jail. His office has been contacted for comment.