Matthew Harvey has resigned as Jefferson County’s Prosecuting Attorney, effective October 8, 2025, to serve as United States Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia. Harvey was nominated for the US Attorney position by President Trump earlier this year and his appointment was confirmed by the United States Senate on October 7.
Harvey issued a statement saying “It has been the greatest honor of my professional life to serve the citizens of Jefferson County as their elected Prosecuting Attorney. The trust this community placed in me has been both a responsibility and a privilege, and I will always be proud of the work we accomplished together in pursuit of justice and public safety.”
Harvey First Elected In 2016
Harvey was sworn in to serve as Prosecuting Attorney in January 2017 after winning election in November 2016.
In his resignation statement, Harvey emphasized that the Prosecuting Attorney’s office “has never been about one person. It has been about the dedicated team of law enforcement and court professionals who work tirelessly every day to ensure fairness, protect victims, and uphold the rule of law. I know that mission will continue with the same commitment and integrity.”
Harvey also highlighted what he considers to be the significant accomplishments of the Prosecuting Attorney’s office during his tenure:
- Combating violent crime: spearheading prosecutions and initiatives that resulted in safer neighborhoods across Jefferson County;
- Protecting victims: expanding victim advocacy services to ensure survivors of crime have greater support and resources;
- Drug crisis response: developing collaborative strategies with law enforcement, treatment providers, and community groups to address the opioid epidemic; and
- Community trust: launching outreach and transparency efforts to build stronger relationships between the prosecutor’s office and the public.
In addition to the official resignation, Harvey provided a separate thank you letter expressing his appreciation to the community and the staff of the Prosecutor’s Office.
County Commission Will Appoint Replacement
The Jefferson County Commission is required by West Virginia law to fill the vacant position with a qualified attorney. At its September 18 meeting, the Commission pre-approved assistant County Prosecuting Attorney Stephen Groh to serve temporarily once Harvey officially resigned.
The County Commission has 30 days from October 8 to appoint a permanent replacement. Groh has already said he does not desire to be considered for the permanent appointment, so the Commission will need to interview other candidates.
The Prosecuting Attorney position will also be on the ballot at the next election in November 2026, so the appointed individual will serve approximately one year.
By Staff Contributor