Commission approves grant-funded hire for sexual assault kit initiative

The Monongalia County Commission voted May 6 to hire Robert A. Matty as an investigator funded by the county’s sexual assault kit initiative grant. The prosecuting attorney introduced Matty, describing his long career with the West Virginia State Police and his recent work supporting the sexual assault kit initiative in the region. "I am here to introduce request introduction of a new employee," the prosecuting attorney said, and asked the commission to approve Matty to be hired under the grant.

Commissioners moved to approve the personnel request with a start date of May 16, 2026; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The commission noted the position will be paid at the same salary level as the previous investigator and is fully grant-funded.

County officials framed the hire as a continuation of regional work to process and address untested sexual assault kits, with Matty’s background in coordinating statewide efforts and task forces presented as the relevant experience for the role. No contentious debate occurred during the approval.

The county administrator will complete hiring paperwork and confirm the start date and salary consistent with the grant terms.