Charleston, West Virginia – Former state delegate David Elliot Pritt, 36, has asked a federal judge to allow his release on bond so he can attend a residential mental‑health program at the Martinsburg VA Medical Center. The request comes as federal prosecutors move to keep him detained.

Prosecutors cite new evidence and a love letter

In a filing with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia, prosecutors highlighted a two‑page letter Pritt allegedly wrote to the minor after their encounters ended in January 2026. In the letter, Pritt expressed remorse and warned the victim that any police involvement would bring severe consequences for both of them.

The filing also detailed the alleged abuse. Investigators say Pritt began messaging multiple eighth‑grade female students during the 2024‑2025 school year via Roblox, Snapchat and Instagram, touching their knees and discussing personal matters. In the 2025‑2026 school year, after transferring to Oak Hill High School as an English teacher, he allegedly pursued a sexual relationship with the primary victim through Snapchat, with some interactions occurring in his classroom.

Bond request and safety concerns

Pritt’s motion asks the court to schedule another detention hearing that would permit his release from the Carter County Detention Center in Kentucky and transport him to the VA program, with his brother handling travel. Prosecutors argue the plan fails to protect the public. They note the VA center has not demonstrated the ability to restrict internet access, limit contact with minors, or prevent Pritt from leaving the facility. No custodian has been identified, and there is no clear post‑treatment supervision plan.

Prosecutors also referenced the victim’s family’s concerns about the minor’s recovery and highlighted that the minor continued regular contact with Pritt through the summer of 2026, including a text on June 20 urging silence about the encounters.

Legal status and next steps

Federal Judge Irene Berger has not yet ruled on either motion. The trial is slated to begin in early December.

While Pritt maintains that the treatment program is essential for his rehabilitation, the government maintains that his release would not adequately safeguard the community or the victim’s family.

Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.