A three-judge panel in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle ordered that two county commissioners, Jennifer Krouse and Tricia Jackson, be removed from office over a month after they were arrested for purposefully neglecting their duties by skipping public meetings. The judges determined that Krouse and Jackson engaged in a pattern of conduct that amounted to a deliberate refusal to perform their duties. They were arrested in March on 42 misdemeanor charges and arraigned in Jefferson County Magistrate Court. The petition to remove them from office was filed in November by the Jefferson County prosecutor’s office, and the three-judge panel heard the case in late March.
Krouse and Jackson did not respond to requests for comment from the Associated Press. Jackson posted on Facebook that she plans to appeal the decision and intends to continue running for state auditor. She believes that an election has been overturned and the will of the people has been subverted. The matter arose from their absence at seven meetings in late 2023, in protest of candidates they felt were not “actual conservatives” who were selected to replace a resigned commissioner. The State Police asserted in court documents that their absence prevented the commission from conducting regular business, such as filling 911 dispatch positions and approving grants for victim advocates and courthouse renovations.
Despite missing meetings, both Krouse and Jackson continued to receive benefits and paychecks. They only returned to meetings after a Jefferson County Circuit Court order. Krouse took office in 2023, while Jackson started in 2021. The missed meetings caused the county to lose out on a grant for courthouse improvements, as expenses over $5,000 needed to be approved by the commission. The criminal complaint also included allegations of conspiracy to commit a crime against the state, further emphasizing the severity of their actions.
The judges’ decision to remove Krouse and Jackson from office reflects the seriousness with which they viewed the commissioners’ actions. By intentionally neglecting their duties and missing key meetings, Krouse and Jackson hindered the county’s ability to conduct essential business and make important decisions. The panel’s ruling sends a strong message that government officials are expected to fulfill their responsibilities and serve their constituents faithfully. Despite Jackson’s plans to appeal the decision, the judges’ decision to remove them from office indicates that accountability and integrity in public office are non-negotiable.
The case of Krouse and Jackson serves as a cautionary tale for other public officials, highlighting the consequences of shirking duties and neglecting responsibilities. As elected officials, Krouse and Jackson were entrusted with the well-being of their community and the efficient functioning of their local government. By willfully refusing to perform their duties, they not only betrayed the public trust but also jeopardized the county’s ability to address important matters and provide essential services to its residents. The judges’ decision to remove them from office underscores the importance of upholding the principles of good governance and ethical conduct in public service.
Moving forward, the removal of Krouse and Jackson from office presents an opportunity for the community to reflect on the qualities and values they expect from their elected officials. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability, transparency, and dedication in public service. While Jackson may seek to challenge the decision, the judges’ ruling reflects a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that those in positions of power are held to the highest standards of conduct. As the community moves forward from this episode, they have the opportunity to elect officials who will prioritize the needs of the community and faithfully fulfill their duties to the best of their abilities.
