Complaint Against Wood County Board Member Dismissed
PARKERSBURG — The West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office has officially dismissed a residency complaint filed against Wood County Board of Education member Debbie Hendershot. Chief Deputy Donald “Deak” Kersey confirmed the dismissal, stating he could not comment further on the specifics.
The complaint originated from Chad Conley, who alleged Hendershot was improperly appointed to a District C seat after previously residing in District A. Conley, who finished second in the election for the vacancy left by Hendershot, contended that her residency status compromised electoral integrity. He stated, "Something as simple as filing for an appointment in the incorrect district is a significant voter integrity problem."
However, Hendershot’s attorney, Bill Merriman, affirmed that the investigation found no evidence supporting Conley’s claims. The Wood County Clerk indicated that Hendershot did not need to change her voter registration prior to her appointment.
Kersey detailed the investigation process, explaining three possible outcomes: a technical violation, substantiated claims leading to criminal prosecution, or dismissal due to insufficient evidence. Following the Secretary of State’s ruling, Merriman expressed satisfaction with the outcome, though a pending civil suit in Wood County Circuit Court remains unresolved. Conley, however, plans to pursue his case further.
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