A newly elected delegate to the West Virginia House of Delegates, Joseph de Soto, was arrested on Thursday for allegedly making terroristic threats against several lawmakers, including House Speaker Roger Hanshaw. The arrest followed reports that de Soto was facing removal from the Republican caucus for undisclosed reasons. De Soto, a physician from Gerrardstown, allegedly made the threats on Tuesday after learning of the potential caucus expulsion.

De Soto is currently held in Berkeley County jail as a "pretrial felon." He allegedly threatened to kill multiple Eastern Panhandle delegates, as well as Speaker Hanshaw. According to the criminal complaint, de Soto stated he was "at peace" with what he "needed to do" and that he was targeting four individuals he deemed "evil." He claimed to have received a divine message, referencing the Mormon Angel Moroni, instructing him to "destroy" certain delegates. In an email obtained by law enforcement, de Soto wrote, "They play stupid games, they are getting stupid awards." He further stated in another email, "I am upset only with the Eastern Panhandle delegates. I have only begun... and won't stop… they can all go to Hell. I will send them there as commanded."

One of the targeted delegates, Wayne Clark, recounted receiving a call during his commute home advising him to relocate his family due to the threat. Clark commended law enforcement for their swift action in ensuring his family's safety and expressed hope that de Soto would receive the necessary help. He emphasized that while public figures are subject to scrutiny, threats against family members are unacceptable.

De Soto, initially elected as a Republican in the 91st District, reportedly switched his party affiliation to Democrat shortly before his arrest. This change may complicate the process of filling the vacancy, as West Virginia law typically mandates that the outgoing lawmaker's party appoints a replacement. The West Virginia House currently has a significant Republican majority. Reports indicate that de Soto was under investigation for allegedly misrepresenting his medical and military background, leading to concerns within the Republican party.

West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Del. Mike Pushkin released a statement expressing concern for the safety of the targeted delegates and their families, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations. West Virginia GOP Chairman Matt Herridge confirmed the party's awareness of the situation and their support for the House leadership's expulsion efforts. Herridge condemned de Soto's behavior and reaffirmed the party's commitment to those serving their communities. Attempts to contact de Soto for comment have been unsuccessful.