Former Judge’s Pension in Question

A former West Virginia judge's public pension is being called into question following his corruption conviction.

The West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement Board on Thursday asked a circuit judge to determine that ex-Mingo Judge Michael Thornsbury is ineligible to receive his pension due to his felony conviction.

According to reports,  the petition seeks to end retirement benefits for Thornsbury and any marital benefits received from his ex-wife Drema Thornsbury.

The petition asks the Kanawha County Circuit Court to find that Thornsbury "rendered less than honorable service" under state code.

Earlier this year, a federal judge sentenced Thornsbury to four years and two months in prison after he pleaded guilty to depriving a man of his right to choose an attorney.