This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the governance and accountability of law enforcement personnel, specifically by allowing sheriffs to appoint multiple chief deputies with the consent of the county commission. It establishes strict restrictions on the political activities of chief deputies, including prohibiting them from soliciting contributions from department members, using their authority to influence elections, and running for other public office. Violations of these restrictions will lead to the removal of the chief deputy. Additionally, the bill removes existing restrictions on county conservators regarding the carrying of firearms, allowing them to do so in compliance with state law, and clarifies the appointment process and compensation for local conservators of the peace.

The bill further specifies that local conservators must promptly turn over any arrested individuals to the sheriff or a regular deputy, and it clarifies that conservators are public officers without creating an employer-employee relationship with their compensation. It also outlines the criteria for appointing conservators in unincorporated communities and mandates documentation from the county commission and circuit court judge regarding the necessity of a conservator's appointment. Furthermore, it restricts conservators from acting as election officials and establishes penalties for violations, including fines and potential jail time. The process for removing a local conservator is also detailed, allowing community petitions to initiate removal for various causes, which the sheriff and county commission must address.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 6-3-1
Committee Substitute: 6-3-1