BECKLEY, W.Va. – The Raleigh County Commission has initiated its own investigation into complaints about Prosecuting Attorney Ben Hatfield as it relates to the workplace.
This is in addition to an investigation already underway related to workplace allegations involving a hostile work environment, gender-based discrimination, inappropriate harassment, among others.
Here is the statement released today by the Commission:
“In regards to the matters involving the Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
The County Commission requested an investigation by the Commission of Special Investigations and are aware of an investigation by the Office of Disciplinary Council of the West Virginia State Bar. We are cooperating with each of these investigations.
Additionally, based upon a letter received from three Raleigh County Circuit Court Judges and some employees, we have initiated our own investigation into these complaints as it relates to the work place.
These matters are personnel related and we cannot comment any further at this time.”
The initial investigations began in late August and Hatfield at that time took voluntary administrative leave to be away from the office during the investigation.
He returned to his office on Sept. 19 and released this statement:
“It is with great pleasure that I announce I will be ceasing my voluntary leave form the Prosecutor’s Office effective tomorrow morning. While rumors have spread about my conduct in office, I have been determined to allow the County Commission to investigate these allegations. It was my desire to do that without my presence hindering their ability to carry out their duties.
Now that an opportunity has been given for persons to come forward with complaints without my presence impeding them, and the Commission has had time to review those complaints and make their own findings without my influence, it is time for me to resume my duties as the Chief Law Enforcement Officer of Raleigh County.
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the people of Raleigh County as their elected Prosecuting Attorney. It is a position that I cherish and respect. I regret that we had to go through this process, but now that it is over, I am ready, willing, and able to return to work and continue the mission of making Raleigh County the best place to live, work, and raise a family.
There is much work to be done to make our county safe and enforce the laws of our State. Thank you for the opportunity to lead in that work, and I look forward to continuing to serve you as fervently as I am capable. I thank you for your support and trust as I carry out this vital mission in our community.”
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