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A second batch of summons' were filed Wednesday against Gilmer County commissioner Larry Chapman.
Gilmer County Magistrate Carol Wolfe issued seven summons to Chapman, following a seven-count criminal complaint filed earlier by Cpl. J. E. Skidmore, lead investigator, a member of the
Glenville detachment of the WV State Police.
The complaint alleges Chapman had unlawful interest, described as pecuniary, in seven more transactions between his Western Auto Store and the Gilmer County public service district.
The transactions were allegedly made during the past year, a violation of WV Code 61-10-15.
The largest of these purchases was in the amount of $422.98, according to the criminal complaint.
Chapman's arraignment is scheduled for July 20th at the Gilmer County Magistrate Court.
Last month Chapman was arrested on seven similar counts and posted bond, pending trial.
Both Gilmer County magistrates have asked to be recused
from the case and it has since been assigned to Braxton County
Magistrate Beth Smith.
According to the arrest warrant, West Virginia Code 61-10-15 states in part: "It is unlawful for any member of a County Commission to be or become pecuniary interested, directly or indirectly, in the proceeds of any contract or service, or in the furnishing of any supplies in the contract for, or the awarding, or letting of a contract if, as a member, officer, he or she may have a voice, influence or control."
If convicted on all 14 counts Chapman could be sentenced to a maximum of 14 years in prison, fined $3,500 and removed as an elected officer of the county.
Cpl. J.E. Skidmore said Thursday the case is still active and other
county agencies are being investigated. Additional charges are expected.
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