KC Star exec editor Fannin resigns in wake of DUI conviction

After a June arrest on suspicion of drunk driving and two subsequent leaves of absence, Kansas City Star president and editor Mike Fannin has announced his resignation.

Fannin’s June 7 arrest in Olathe, Kansas, just west of the Missouri metropolis, led to his third DUI conviction when he plead guilty in October. He was sentenced to two days in jail, 120 hours of house arrest and one year of probation.

The incident set Kansas City media watchers abuzz, as Fannin had made his share of enemies. With his allegedly mercurial temper and reputation for ruthlessness, Fannin was said to have fired more journalists than any editor in Kansas City media history.

Yet Fannin’s leadership also brought recognition to The Star. The paper was a finalist in the Pulitzer Prizes for five straight years, winning the award in the commentary category this year. The Star also won two Scripps Howard awards and several National Headliner Awards on his 14-year watch.

“It’s been such a privilege to work alongside so many talented people over the years,” Fannin said in a statement. “My heart is full of gratitude for them all. … My thanks go out to all the journalists in our newsroom – and all the wonderful people in sales, audience, HR and production.”