West Virginia Court Removes GOP County Commissioners

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals has confirmed the removal of two Jefferson County commissioners, Jennifer Krouse and Tricia Jackson, who were found to have deliberately neglected their official duties by failing to attend meetings. The court's decision, announced in an abbreviated order on Wednesday, follows a May ruling by a panel of circuit judges, who cited a "pattern of conduct" in the commissioners' actions. A detailed opinion from the justices is expected to be released later. Krouse and Jackson, both Republicans, faced significant legal challenges, including 42 misdemeanor charges related to their absences from meetings. The charges ranged from failure to perform official duties to conspiracy against the state. Their removal was initiated by a petition from the Jefferson County prosecutor's office in November, following their absence from seven meetings in late 2023. The commissioners reportedly skipped these meetings in protest against the selection of candidates to fill a vacancy left by a resigned commissioner, claiming the candidates did not represent true conservative values. The missed meetings had serious implications for county operations, preventing the commission from conducting essential business, including filling critical 911 dispatch positions and approving grants for victim advocacy and courthouse renovations. Despite their absences, Krouse and Jackson continued to receive their salaries and benefits until a court order mandated their return to duty. Krouse was elected in January 2023, while Jackson has served since 2021.