The West Virginia Ethics Commission Probable Review Board has unanimously determined there is probable cause to believe a Tyler County Board of Education member has violated the Ethics Acts. (Tyler Star an News file photo)

By ED PARSONS

Special to the New and Sentinel

An investigation by the West Virginia Ethics Commission Probable Review Board entered an order on September 17, 2025, finding that there is probable cause to believe that Tyler County Board of Education member Larry Thomas violated the Ethics Act by sending a text to the Tyler County Superintendent of Schools soliciting his assistance in securing the employment of Thomas’ son with the county school system.

The review board, after investigating and considering the allegations against Thomas, unanimously determined there was probable cause to believe the violations occurred. The review board statement of facts shows that on January 5, 2021, Thomas sent a text to the superintendent informing him of the Board’s discussion during an executive session concerning proposals for the superintendent’s salary. In the same text, Thomas is alleged to have solicited assistance for his son’s employment at Tyler County Schools.

The charges against Thomas allege that he violated WV Code 6B-2-5 (b) and WV Code R. 158-6-3. Which involves using his position as a public official or employee to show favoritism or grant patronage in employment or working conditions, or for a relative or person who you reside with.

The investigation revealed the text message from Thomas to the superintendent stated the following:

“Thanks again my friend. Just give you a little info we had two bd members was wanting $2000 raise a year for a 4 year contract starting with your contract now meaning #122,000, $14,00 $126,000 , $128,000 for the last year. Do me a favor and get my son back home , Keep this to yourself Mrs. Hoover, Mrs Byers and myself was in favor of the $125,000 I was surprised with Dave. Thanks again.”

A public hearing in the matter will be held on December 10, 2025, at the offices of the West Virginia Ethics Commission, 210 Brooks Street, Third Floor Conference Room, Charleston, West Virginia, beginning at 10:00 am., before independent hearing examiner, Jeffery G. Blaydes, Esq., to determine the truth or falsity of the charges. The hearing will be continued until it is completed.