West Virginia State Delegate Faces Resignation Calls Amid Criminal Allegations

A West Virginia state delegate, David Elliott Pritt, is under intense pressure to resign following his arrest linked to accusations of sexual conduct with a minor. The 36-year-old Republican, who has taught English at Fayette County’s Oak Hill High School, faces charges for allegedly enticing a 15-year-old girl into sexual activities, according to a federal criminal complaint. The charges come after the girl’s family reported the abuse to authorities.

According to the complaint, Pritt allegedly began communicating with the girl while she was in eighth grade in 2024 through platforms like Roblox and Snapchat, eventually expressing love for her. In the summer of 2025, he reportedly sent explicit content to the girl, pressuring her to reciprocate. As the relationship escalated, Pritt allegedly initiated physical interactions at the high school toward the end of last year, instructing the girl to meet him in his classroom.

Pritt allegedly continued communication on Snapchat until recently, with evidence pointing to a final encounter occurring between December and January. In June, he allegedly warned the girl not to disclose their activities, fearing the repercussions on his reputation and life. In his messages, he reportedly acknowledged the potential fallout for both of them should law enforcement become involved.

In response to the allegations, West Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Roger Hanshaw removed Pritt from legislative roles, urging him to resign. Hanshaw stated, “What Elliott Pritt is accused of doing is shocking, disgusting, and disappointing in every way,” emphasizing the urgency to apply the law fully should the allegations be proven true. Hanshaw noted the importance of maintaining a high standard for public officials, particularly those entrusted with public office.

Delegate Josh Holstein also advocated for Pritt’s resignation, citing the severe nature of the federal charges as incompatible with public service. “Public officials are held to the highest standard of conduct,” Holstein said, stressing that these allegations preclude effective representation for Pritt’s constituents.

The Fayette County Schools acknowledged the arrest and confirmed cooperation with ongoing investigations. Superintendent Michele Blatt has ordered the suspension of Pritt’s teaching certificate, underscoring the trust teachers bear in their roles. She stated, “The allegation that Mr. Pritt engaged in enticement of a minor attending Fayette County Schools is shocking and disturbing.”

Pritt remains in custody at the Carter County Detention Center, with a court appearance set for Monday. As a former Air Force veteran with children, the lawmaker faces growing calls for resignation. Delegate Evan Worrell has requested a potential special legislative session to evaluate Pritt’s position, independent of criminal proceedings. “The House has an independent responsibility to determine whether Delegate Pritt’s continued service is compatible with the standards expected of those entrusted with public office,” Worrell stated in his correspondence with Governor Patrick Morrisey.