West Virginia Delegate Elliott Pritt faces criminal charges following allegations of sexual conduct with a minor, prompting state lawmakers to formally request a special legislative session to consider his removal from office.

House Members Demand Special Session

The West Virginia House of Delegates has formally petitioned Governor Jim Justice to convene a special session after Pritt’s arrest earlier this week. The request represents an extraordinary step by state legislators, who seek authority to address the delegate’s status while criminal proceedings move forward. House leadership moved quickly to initiate the removal process, signaling the severity with which lawmakers view the allegations against their colleague. The formal request demonstrates bipartisan concern about maintaining public trust in state government institutions.

Special sessions in West Virginia require gubernatorial approval and typically address urgent matters that cannot wait for regular legislative sessions. The House’s unified call for action reflects growing pressure from constituents demanding accountability from elected officials. Legal experts note that while criminal charges proceed through the court system, the legislature maintains separate authority to remove members for conduct deemed unbecoming of public office.

Criminal Investigation Details

Law enforcement officials arrested Pritt following an investigation into alleged inappropriate sexual conduct involving a minor. Authorities have not released specific details about the nature of the allegations or the age of the alleged victim, citing the ongoing investigation and privacy protections for minors involved in criminal cases. The charges represent serious felony accusations that carry significant potential prison time if prosecutors secure a conviction.

Pritt has not publicly commented on the charges since his arrest. His legal representation has not issued a statement regarding the allegations or his plans to address the House’s removal request. The delegate’s silence contrasts sharply with the swift legislative response from his colleagues, who moved immediately to distance themselves from the controversy.

Implications for State Government

The case adds to growing concerns about elected official conduct across West Virginia. Earlier this year, a former school band instructor in Cabell County pleaded guilty to third-degree sexual assault charges, and a former correctional officer faced federal charges for excessive force against inmates. These incidents have fueled public debate about screening processes and accountability mechanisms for public servants.

If the governor approves the special session request, legislators will convene specifically to consider Pritt’s removal. The process requires a two-thirds majority vote for expulsion, setting a high threshold that reflects the gravity of removing a duly elected representative. Constitutional scholars emphasize that such actions balance voter representation rights against protecting institutional integrity and public safety.