West Virginia Delegate Joseph de Soto faces felony charges for allegedly threatening to kill fellow lawmakers, claiming divine inspiration.
At a Glance
- Joseph de Soto, an incoming West Virginia delegate, arrested for making death threats against colleagues
- De Soto allegedly claimed “God called him to kill them,” targeting several lawmakers including House Speaker
- Charged with “terroristic threats,” de Soto’s bond set at $300,000
- De Soto switched from Republican to Democratic party shortly before arrest
- Both parties condemned the threats, with some lawmakers relocating families for safety
Threats and Arrest
In a shocking turn of events, Joseph de Soto, an incoming member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, has been arrested on charges of making terroristic threats against his fellow lawmakers. The West Virginia State Police took de Soto into custody following an investigation that uncovered alarming statements allegedly made by the delegate-elect.
According to reports, de Soto specifically targeted several Republican delegates, including House Speaker Roger Hanshaw. The gravity of the situation became clear when it was revealed that de Soto had allegedly invoked divine authority as justification for his threats.
Incoming House of Delegates member Joseph de Soto was arrested early Thursday morning by state police in Berkeley County for allegations that he threatened to harm fellow lawmakers.
Via @WV_Watchhttps://t.co/ZFuH0dn0Om
— Charleston Gazette-Mail (@wvgazettemail) December 12, 2024
Alleged Statements and Reactions
The criminal complaint against de Soto contains disturbing details of his alleged threats. In one instance, de Soto reportedly stated, “God called him to kill them,” referring to his targeted colleagues. This claim sent shockwaves through the West Virginia political establishment, prompting swift action from law enforcement and party leaders.
“I am focused on four people who are evil … not angry, but at peace with what I need to do.” – Joseph de Soto
The threats were not taken lightly by those targeted. Delegate Wayne Clark, one of the lawmakers named in de Soto’s alleged hit list, took immediate precautions to protect his family. Clark stated, “I instructed the kids to leave the house,” highlighting the real fear instilled by de Soto’s alleged actions.
A West Virginia delegate-elect was arrested on Thursday after allegedly threatening to kill multiple lawmakers after reportedly being informed he could be dropped from his GOP caucus position.
Joseph de Soto is a medical doctor from Gerrardstown approximately 100 miles from…
— N' Cuffs (@NCuffs1) December 13, 2024
Political Fallout
De Soto’s arrest has created a political firestorm in West Virginia. Having won a Republican primary, de Soto recently switched to the Democratic party just before his arrest. This move has put both parties in the uncomfortable position of addressing the actions of a politician who has straddled party lines.
“Our elected officials sacrifice a lot to serve their communities, and it is a travesty for anyone to face the additional burden of threats made against themselves and their families.” – West Virginia Republican Party chairman Matt Herridge
Both Democratic and Republican leaders have unequivocally condemned de Soto’s alleged threats. The West Virginia Republican Party took the additional step of expelling de Soto from their caucus, emphasizing their zero-tolerance stance on such behavior.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
De Soto now faces serious legal consequences. Charged with making terroristic threats, a felony in West Virginia, he has been given a substantial bond of $300,000. Despite the severity of the charges, de Soto has entered a plea of not guilty and is considered innocent until proven otherwise.
As the West Virginia Legislature prepares to reconvene in February 2025, questions loom about de Soto’s political future. His term was set to begin in January 2025, but these recent events have cast doubt on whether he will ever take office. If removed, state law dictates that his position will be filled by another Democrat.
The case against Joseph de Soto serves as a stark reminder of the importance of civil discourse in politics and the serious consequences that can result from threats against public officials. As the legal process unfolds, West Virginia’s political landscape will undoubtedly feel the reverberations of this unprecedented situation.
Sources:
- WV lawmaker arrested after allegedly threatening to kill entire region’s delegation over caucus beef
- Incoming West Virginia state lawmaker arrested after allegedly threatening to kill fellow lawmakers
- Incoming WV House member de Soto arrested for making terroristic threats against lawmakers
- Incoming Delegate Arrested For Alleged Death Threats To Colleagues
- Dem Lawmaker Arrested for Alleged Death Threats Against Colleagues.
