A teacher and West Virginia lawmaker is facing serious accusations of using Roblox to entice a 15-year-old student into a sexual relationship, allegedly pleading with her not to disclose anything, fearing it would ruin his life, officials reported.
David Elliot Pruitt, 36, a Republican member of the West Virginia House of Representatives, initiated contact with the student last year when she was in eighth grade, where he served as her teacher, according to an arrest affidavit.
The allegations describe Pruitt expressing “love” to the girl through Roblox and Snapchat before the interactions became sexual, including requests for nude photos and sending her explicit videos of himself.
As they both moved to Oak Hill High School in Fayette, the situation intensified. In late 2025, Pruitt reportedly invited her into his classroom to engage in sexual acts, the affidavit stated.
It is claimed that the girl engaged in sexual touching and oral sex with him in the classroom approximately five to ten times, with the last occasion occurring around December 2025 or January 2026.
The communication between them continued until June 2026 when Pruitt urged her to keep their relationship secret, warning that authorities could seize her phone and bring “hell” into their lives.
The girl shared with investigators that Pruitt had accurately predicted that if their relationship was exposed, it would attract media attention.
“It’s terrible for both of us. I’m going to lose my whole life,” he reportedly told her.
Pruitt has served Fayette County in the 50th District since 2022. Allegations emerged after the girl’s family notified authorities on July 9, leading to his arrest this week on federal charges of luring a minor.
Initially a Democrat, Pruitt switched to Republican in 2023.
House Speaker Roger Hanshaw condemned Pruitt’s actions in a statement, announcing his removal from all House duties and calling for his resignation.
“The alleged actions of Elliott Pruitt are shocking, disgusting, and unfortunate,” he stated, expressing sympathy for Pruitt’s family. “If any of these serious charges are true, the law should take its course.” He further urged Pruitt to resign promptly to prevent additional embarrassment for his family and community.
Fayette County Schools is cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation unfolds.
