Bill > HR4

This resolution declares a vacancy in the Ninety-First Delegate District of the West Virginia House of Delegates for Joseph A. DeSoto due to his failure to take the constitutionally required Oath of Office on January 8, 2025. The resolution stems from a series of serious events, including DeSoto's alleged threats to kill several House of Delegates members on December 11, 2024, which led to his arrest and a magistrate court finding of probable cause for terroristic threats. Additionally, two House of Delegates members obtained Personal Safety Orders against DeSoto, which restrict his contact with them until at least ten days after the 2025 Regular Legislative Session. The resolution formally declares DeSoto's seat vacant, requires the House Clerk to certify the resolution and deliver it to DeSoto or post it at his last known address, and mandates that the Speaker of the House inform the Governor and the Berkeley County Republican Executive Committee of this action, effectively removing DeSoto from his elected position due to his failure to take the Oath of Office and his alleged threatening behavior.

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Resolution_History.cfm?year=2025&sessiontype=RS&input4=4&billtype=R&houseorig=H&btype=res