West Virginia Lawmaker Arrested for Alleged Terroristic Threats

Joseph de Soto, recently elected to the state House, is accused of threatening government officials and faces a felony charge.

Overview

Joseph de Soto, 61, was arrested by West Virginia State Police on allegations of making terroristic threats against government officials.
One of the alleged targets of de Soto's threats was Republican Speaker of the House Roger Hanshaw, according to a criminal complaint.
De Soto, who was elected as a Republican in November with 72% of the vote, switched his party affiliation to Democrat one day before his arrest.
The West Virginia GOP has condemned de Soto's actions, emphasizing the need to protect public officials from threats.
If convicted, de Soto could face up to three years in prison and a $25,000 fine; the case remains under investigation.