WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – On this day in West Virginia history, State Auditor John Bond resigned following impeachment in the House of Delegates.
In 1914, Pendleton County native John Bond embarked on a career in public service with great promise, quickly becoming one of West Virginia’s most esteemed young politicians. However, his trajectory took a drastic turn.
Bond, a veteran of the Spanish-American War who attained the rank of major in World War I, entered office as State Auditor in 1920 and won re-election in 1924.
Yet, his tenure was marred by controversy, leading to his ousting from office on October 20, 1926, by Governor Howard Gore amidst allegations of misappropriating state funds.
Governor Gore initiated an investigation into Bond’s conduct after suspicions arose the previous spring.
It was discovered that Bond had been issuing checks to relatives and individuals unaffiliated with the state, including fictitious persons.
Statehouse employees cashed these checks and returned the money to Bond, further complicating matters.
Bond’s refusal to address discrepancies prior to Gore’s assumption of office in March 1925 only exacerbated the situation.
In January 1927, the House of Delegates impeached Bond, though he resigned before the Senate could complete the process on March 15, 1927. Gore appointed Sam Mallison as Bond’s successor.
The ordeal took a toll on Bond, resulting in a breakdown.
Following a brief stint at Huntington State Hospital, he was found guilty of embezzlement and larceny of state funds, receiving a six-year sentence at the State Penitentiary.