MARTINSBURG, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Berkeley County Commission has appointed an individual to fill the vacancy of sheriff.
The Berkeley County Commission voted unanimously to appoint Robert A. “Rob” Blair to serve the unexpired four-year term of Sheriff of Berkeley County through December 31 of this year.
A swearing-in ceremony for the new Sheriff is set for 9:30 AM on Jan. 19 in the Berkeley County Commission chambers.
The Commission Chambers is located on the second floor of the administration building at 400 W. Stephen Street.
Blair of Martinsburg was among three finalists who were interviewed on Jan. 16 in a public session of the County Commission for the position.
The other finalists were Jeremy J. Farner and David Scott Richmond.
Five other individuals submitted applications for the position. The deadline to apply was Jan. 10.
Commissioners publicly thanked all of the applicants for their interest and willingness to serve Berkeley County.
Blair is expected to complete the unexpired four-year term of former Sheriff Nathan Harmon, who resigned on December 26, 2023.
Any vacancy that occurs in the office of prosecuting attorney, sheriff, assessor, or county surveyor is to be filled by the County Commission, per W.Va. Code 3-10-8.
Individuals appointed or elected to serve as sheriff are limited to serving a total of two, consecutive terms, regardless of the length of the unexpired term, per W.Va. State Law.
To be considered for appointment to this public office, applicants must have met the following criteria per WV State law:
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be legally eligible to hold public office.
• Be a member of the same political party (Republican) as the officeholder who vacated the office.
• Must reside in Berkeley County.