
Joseph De Soto, who was recently elected to West Virginia’s House of Delegates, was arrested Thursday for allegedly threatening to kill five Republican colleagues. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and could lead to a legal battle over control of his seat after he changed his party affiliation from Republican to Democrat the day before his arrest.
De Soto, 61, was elected in November to represent Berkeley County. During a caucus meeting at the state Capitol, he reportedly became enraged upon hearing about a vote to remove him from office for undisclosed reasons. He allegedly directed his threats at House Speaker Roger Hanshaw and Reps. Bill Ridenour, Pat McGeehan, Michael Hite, and Chuck Horst.
Joseph De Soto Arrested for Threats Against GOP Lawmakers, Shaking West Virginia Politics – Give Me Five News https://t.co/e71Qtr7ddB
— Kathlin Hawleys (@HawleysJadefav) December 16, 2024
Police records suggest De Soto claimed he was following divine orders to kill the lawmakers and had sent threatening messages earlier in the week. He is also under investigation for allegedly providing false information about his military service and personal background during his campaign.
De Soto is currently detained at Eastern Regional Jail on a $300,000 cash bond. His sudden switch to the Democratic Party just before the arrest has fueled speculation about which party will ultimately hold the seat if he is removed. Legal analysts predict a dispute, with Republicans likely arguing that the seat should remain under their control.
GOP: PARTY OF FAMILY VALUES? 😂😂😂👇👇👇👇Incoming West Virginia state lawmaker arrested after allegedly threatening to kill fellow lawmakers – NBC News https://t.co/LwNdKG0Z0M
— educated derelict (@deviousfranklin) December 13, 2024
West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin condemned the threats, calling for accountability. “Public service is about resolving differences through dialogue, not threats,” he stated. West Virginia GOP Chairman Matt Herridge also criticized De Soto’s actions and supported efforts to expel him from office.
The case has drawn attention to the challenges of maintaining civility and safety in state politics, with lawmakers expressing concern over the impact of such behavior on public trust.