JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Chief Thomas Jackson will step down, but first he wants to ensure that the police department stays in place and is not dissolved, CNN is reporting.

Developing. Earlier: Missouri appeals judge named to take over Ferguson court following Justice Department report. -AP

The Missouri Supreme Court has announced it will assisgn a state judge to handle all pending and future cases in Ferguson — until further notice.

Now, Appeals Court Judge Roy Richter will hear all of Ferguson’s pending and future cases. The order takes effect March 16, KMOV reports.

“More than two-thirds of all Missouri court cases are filed in the municipal divisions,” Chief Justice Mary Russell said.

“Though these are not courts of record, they are the first – and sometimes the only – impression Missourians have of their court system. Although we recognize the local control our statutes give these uniquely local entities, we must not sacrifice individual rights and society’s collective commitment to justice.”

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