Associated Press Published

Arrested Sheriff's Candidate Says Campaign Will Go On


A candidate for sheriff in West Virginia who has been charged with heroin possession says he plans to continue his campaign.

A statement released Wednesday on the campaign website of Republican John Orem says he’s “completely capable” of serving Berkeley County residents.

According to a criminal complaint filed by State Police, Orem was found unresponsive at his Inwood home Tuesday. He was later released on bond.

The statement says Orem plans to vigorously defend the charges in court. It says he has never been a user of illegal drugs.

Orem is a former Martinsburg police officer who defeated eight GOP challengers in the May primary. He’ll face Democrat Curtis Keller and independent candidate Lisa St. Clair in November. Incumbent Democratic Sheriff Kenny Lemaster is seeking a House of Delegates seat.