UPDATE: CALHOUN PROSECUTOR RESIGNING OVER 'BREAKDOWN' WITH WV STATE POLICE

(04/01/2010)
FIRST REPORT MARCH 31 - Calhoun County prosecutor Shelly DeMarino is resigning, citing "an irreparable breakdown in the relationship between my office and the WV State Police."

"I believe that the citizens of Calhoun County deserve better," DeMarino said.

In her resignation letter to the Calhoun Commission, DeMarino (left) said, "It is with much regret that I resign...There have been matters that have arisen that I feel make it impossible for me to continue in this capacity."

"The situation between myself and law enforcement has led me to this decision," she continued.

West Virginia State Police spokesman Sgt. Michael Baylous said he was not aware of the situation or alleged problem in Calhoun County, but "would talk to senior staff Thursday and get an answer," according to a Charleston Gazette story.

While the prosecutor did not comment further on the reasons for her resignation, problems reportedly reached a boiling point after Cpl. Doug Starcher expressed anger over the release of public information of a recent criminal complaint.

The complaint was released to the Hur Herald, the Calhoun Chronicle, the Parkersburg News, the Times Record/Roane County Reporter and other state media.

Criminal complaints are public information in West Virginia.

Cpl. Starcher was reportedly upset that information in the complaint could bring harm to a witness by being published in the media, although all persons who are charged with a crime get a copy of the criminal complaint, essentially making the officers concerns invalid.

DeMarino's resignation indicated a number of ongoing problems that she says has made the relationship inoperable in fulfilling her duties.

DeMarino has resigned effective May 1, but indicated she would remain in the position until June 1 if a replacement is not found.

She expressed thanks "for allowing me to serve in this capacity. I have truly enjoyed it and have also enjoyed serving the citizens of Calhoun County."

DeMarino was appointed by the commission to fill the term of former prosecutor Matt Minney, who resigned.

Minney was appointed by the commission to fill the term of former prosecutor Tony Morgan, who also resigned.

The Calhoun Commission is accepting resumes for the unexpired term.

Applicants can submit resumes to Calhoun County Clerk, P. O. Box 230, Grantsville WV 26147.

Deadline is April 12, 2010 at 9 a.m.

Questions regarding the appointment, call 304-354-6725.