Raleigh County prosecutor is back at work as a special investigation continues

An embattled Raleigh County prosecuting attorney said he’s returning to work amid investigations surrounding his alleged conduct. There are reports that Benjamin Hatfield terminated at least one assistant prosecutor from the office early Thursday morning. Hatfield said in a statement that he is ending a “voluntary leave” after the county commission had an opportunity to hear complaints against him and investigate without his influence. The prosecuting attorney originally went on leave after commissioners began investigating misconduct allegations. The investigation has since been referred to the West Virginia Commission on Special Investigations.