Feds create northern WV public corruption team - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

Feds create northern WV public corruption team

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WHEELING, W.Va. (AP) -

The top federal prosecutor in West Virginia's Northern District has formed a new unit to field calls about and investigate claims of public corruption.

U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced Thursday such cases will become a top criminal priority, and he urged citizens to get involved.

Corruption cases often begin with tips, so Ihlenfeld has created a new hotline and email address. Just call 855-WVA-FEDS (855-982-3337) or email wvafeds@usdoj.gov.

Assistant prosecutor John Parr will lead the unit, and it will get support from State Police, the FBI and the Internal Revenue Service.

Investigators will also collaborate with the Secretary of State, the West Virginia Ethics Commission and the state Commission on Special Investigations.

Ihlenfeld says corruption undermines the public's faith in government, and it has no place in public service.

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