Current magistrate eyes return to office

Shawn L. Campbell was appointed to the position of Fayette County magistrate in 2021 following the retirement of Magistrate Sharon McGraw. He is seeking election for the non-partisan, unexpired term in Division 4 when the May 10 primary is held.

After a nearly 22-year law enforcement career serving the entire county, he retired at the rank of captain, the highest available civil service rank, and was the sheriff's head of operations.

Campbell was selected to replace McGraw following an application, interview and security vetting process by the chief circuit judge of Fayette County and the Supreme Court of Appeals.

He is married to his wife of 17 years, Alicia Bracken Campbell, of Gauley Bridge.

Campbell is a graduate of Midland Trail High School, the WVSP Academy and BridgeValley CTC, and he attended numerous other trainings and educational courses which voters can find listed on the Facebook page: Campbell For Magistrate.

Campbell realizes that no one comes to the magistrate court on their best day, whether they are being sued or are in a situation that requires them to file a suit, or maybe they received a citation, they perhaps are being evicted or are needing to conduct an eviction, or maybe are accused of a crime or are a victim or witness to a crime. Or, individuals could find themselves in a situation where they feel they need a restraining order (DVP), or possibly are in a situation that requires a mental hygiene for a friend or loved one.

No matter what the reason may be, Campbell says he understands the reason for being there is most likely not a favorable one, but he pledges that people's problems will be heard immediately and they will be treated with respect.

Campbell uses the law and court rules as his guide, leaving his opinions and preconceived notions at home, he says. In a press release, he said he understands that simply walking into the courthouse can be intimidating, and he pledges that he will make the situation as comfortable as possible. Campbell also says he realizes that, in some cases, it takes a great deal of courage to come to the courthouse annex to address a personal situation, and he says he will not interact with individuals in a way that makes them feel their problem is not important.

He also understands that many Fayette County citizens live a long distance away from the annex, and he will do everything possible to assist residents the first time as long as the law and court rules allow.