CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The newest member of the House of Delegates took the oath of office Wednesday.
Bill Vest, R-Fayette, was sworn-in by House Clerk Jeff Pack during a brief ceremony in the House Chamber.
Vest, of Oak Hill, was appointed Tuesday by Gov. Patrick Morrisey. He replaces former Del. Elliott Pritt who resigned last month after being arrested by the FBI and charged with allegedly grooming a 15-year-old girl for a sexual relationship.
Vest has worked for more than four decades in public safety and administrative roles. He retired four years ago as the acting administrator/superintendent of the Beckley Correctional Center. He also previously served as deputy warden and associate warden of security at Mount Olive Correctional Complex in Fayette County.
Vest was one of three candidates that Morrisey considered for the seat, along with Brent Hudnall and Eric Walton.
Vest will take part in legislative interim committee meetings Sept. 13-15 at the state capitol.