Public Defender Commission – Press Release –
Matthew Crowell To Be Next State Public Defender June 26, 2025

The Missouri Public Defender Commission has selected Matthew Crowell of Rolla, Missouri, to serve as the next Director of the Office of State Public Defender. Crowell will assume the role on July 1, 2025, succeeding Mary Fox, who will retire on June 30, 2025.

Crowell began his legal career in Rolla as an Assistant Public Defender in 2008. He later served as Rolla’s Deputy District Defender and District Defender. For the past three and a half years, he has served as the Southern Regional Trial Division Director, providing oversight to 16 trial offices covering the southern half of Missouri.

A native of Harrisonville, Missouri, Crowell earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from Truman State University in Kirksville and his law degree from the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law.

“The Public Defender System in Missouri is a small but powerful check on the government – protecting the Constitution and preventing government overreach. It is an honor to lead an organization that ensures everyone, regardless of income, receives an ardent and competent defense,” Crowell said.

The Office of State Public Defender represents indigent individuals charged with crimes by the State.  In fiscal year 2024, the number of cases handled exceeded 58,000.

For questions regarding this information, please contact:
Matthew Crowell, Director
Phone: 573-777-9977
Email: Matthew.Crowell@mspd.mo.gov