West Virginia Delegate-Elect Arrested After Threatening GOP Colleagues

Joseph De Soto, a newly elected member of West Virginia’s House of Delegates, was arrested Thursday after allegedly threatening to kill five of his Republican colleagues. The 61-year-old, who had recently switched from Republican to Democrat, now faces serious legal and political consequences.

De Soto, who won the seat for Berkeley County in November as a Republican, reportedly became angry upon learning of a vote to remove him from office for undisclosed reasons. The threats allegedly targeted House Speaker Roger Hanshaw and Reps. Bill Ridenour, Pat McGeehan, Michael Hite, and Chuck Horst. According to police reports, De Soto claimed God instructed him to carry out the threats and sent messages warning his colleagues earlier in the week.

In addition to the criminal allegations, De Soto is under investigation for falsifying military and personal information during his campaign. He is being held on a $300,000 cash bond at Eastern Regional Jail.

The timing of his party switch, which occurred the day before his arrest, could lead to a legal battle over which party will control his seat if he is removed. Political observers note that Republicans may argue the seat should remain in GOP hands since De Soto was elected as a Republican.

West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin condemned the threats, stating, “Public service is about resolving differences through dialogue, not threats.” Meanwhile, West Virginia GOP Chairman Matt Herridge backed efforts to expel De Soto, adding, “We disavow and condemn the behavior of the former Republican Delegate-elect.”

The incident has highlighted safety concerns within the state legislature while raising questions about the political implications of De Soto’s actions. As investigations continue, both parties are bracing for potential legal and legislative battles ahead.

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