Please see the following statement below from Senate President Mitch Carmichael regarding today’s news about Supreme Court Justice Allen Loughry:
“The news from United States Attorney Mike Stuart this morning regarding Justice Loughry is very troubling. As citizens review the facts and case against Justice Loughry we must all remember that, until proven guilty, the American system of justice presumes the innocence of those accused of crimes. There is an established system in place to adjudicate and fairly resolve this matter. Nevertheless, the confidence and workmanship in the judicial branch of government must be held to the highest standards of propriety and respect. Therefore, Justice Loughry should immediately resign his position as Justice of the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals. The opportunity to defend himself against these serious allegations should not be conducted from his current role as Justice. Furthermore, the Court must work diligently to rebuild the public’s trust that citizens deserve from the highest court in our state. May we all pray for a fair, judicious, prompt resolution to this unfortunate event.”
-- Senate President Mitch Carmichael, R-Jackson