A federal grand jury has indicted David Elliott Pritt, a former West Virginia delegate and teacher, on charges of child exploitation. Pritt, who is 36 and switched political parties from Democrat to Republican in 2023, faces three serious felony counts. These include sexual exploitation of a child, coercion and enticement of a child, and witness tampering.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia disclosed these charges on Wednesday. Prosecutors allege that between March 2024 and January 2026, Pritt coerced a minor girl into sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of creating visual depictions of such acts. Additionally, he is accused of attempting to intimidate the minor to silence her from informing law enforcement.
The allegations pertain to a 15-year-old student from Oak Hill High School in Fayette County, where Pritt taught. Following an investigation, authorities arrested him on July 22.
What Did HB 4695 Propose?
Pritt had co-sponsored legislation earlier this year that aimed to enhance penalties for sexual offenses against minors, especially by those in positions of trust. West Virginia House Bill 4695 suggested increasing prison sentences and fines significantly. The bill included provisions to categorize attempts to exploit a child sexually as an offense applicable to parents, guardians, and custodial persons in trust roles.
The proposed bill recommended doubling the prison sentence for such offenses from 20 to 40 years. It also targeted increased penalties for individuals in trust positions who knowingly manage, transmit, distribute, or showcase visuals where a child under their care is engaged in sexually explicit acts. Although the bill passed in the House, it stalled in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Prosecutors highlighted Pritt’s dual role as a West Virginia House of Delegates member and teacher during the time of the alleged crimes. Following his arrest in July, authorities removed him from all legislative roles. On August 4, Pritt chose to withdraw his candidacy for reelection to the state House.
West Virginia House Speaker Roger Hanshaw described the allegations against Pritt as “shocking, disgusting and disappointing.” Hanshaw emphasized that no child should suffer exploitation, especially by trusted adults responsible for their development.
U.S. Attorney Moore Capito advised parents and guardians to engage children in discussions about reporting questionable or inappropriate actions as they return to school.
“Children must understand they can safely report and discuss any situation that hints at grooming, inappropriate conduct, or abuse,” Capito asserted.
Pritt chose to waive his right to a preliminary hearing on July 27. Moore Capito commented on the case following this hearing, remarking on the gravity of the charges. Pritt, who has a spouse and four children, remains detained at the Carter County Detention Center.