Raleigh County Circuit Court Clerk resigns, amidst allegations of racist statements
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — Raleigh County Circuit Court Clerk R.M. “Bob” McComas resigned from his office on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, according to Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney Ben Hatfield.
County officials said employees in McComas’ office alerted those in the Raleigh County court system very recently that they felt uncomfortable with their work environment because of racist and sexist statements allegedly being made by McComas.
Hon. Andrew Dimich, the chief judge at Raleigh County Circuit Court, said the position of Circuit Clerk is an important one in the judicial process, including circuit and family court.
“Hugely important. For example, they are responsible for the management and administration of all jury processes in Circuit Court,” he said, adding the clerk has access to West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles records. “I think, like any holder of public office, they should be above reproach. They should understand their duties and fulfill them, according to statute and according to case law.”
Babydog to have two surgeries, Gov. Jim Justice says
Judge Dimlich said Raleigh County Commission employs the Raleigh County Circuit Clerk, but both the Raleigh Couty Prosecuting Attorney’s Office investigated alleged derogatory statements about women who work in the Circuit Clerk office, racial and ethnic groups and immigrants.
Prosecutor Hatfield said the investigation was practically completed as of Wednesday evening, but he declined to confirm details of the allegations.
“This was an effort by my office, in conjunction with the Raleigh County Commission, to make sure that every single county employee has a safe and secure workplace environment,” Hatfield said.
McComas, a Republican and former West Virginia State Trooper, defeated longtime Democratic incumbent Paul Flanagan in November 2022.
Route 60 closed in Rainelle, due to structure fire near Rainelle Elementary School
McComas was not in his office on Wednesday to offer a comment.
Hatfield said McComas is suspended until Monday, February 12, 2024, when his resignation becomes official.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
