A Tyler County Board of Education member has been accused by the West Virginia Ethics Commission of soliciting the superintendent’s help in securing his son’s employment in the school system.

According to a report from the West Virginia Ethics Commission Probable Review Board from Sept. 17, Tyler board member Larry Thomas is accused of violating the Ethics act by sending a text to Superintendent Shane Highley asking for help to get Thomas’ son into the school system.

The text, according to the review board report, came following the Tyler County Board of Education’s discussion during an executive session regarding proposals for Highley’s salary. It was in that text that Thomas is alleged to have solicited Highley’s help for his son.

According to the review board report, the text read: “Thanks again my friend. Just give you a little info we had two bd members was wanting $2000 raise a year for a 4 year contract starting with your contract now meaning #122,000, $14,00 $126,000 , $128,000 for the last year. Do me a favor and get my son back home , Keep this to yourself Mrs. Hoover, Mrs Byers and myself was in favor of the $125,000 I was surprised with Dave. Thanks again.”

The review board, after investigating and considering the allegations against Thomas, unanimously determined there was probable cause to believe the violations occurred.

The charges against Thomas allege that he violated state code by using his position as a public official or employee to show favoritism or grant patronage in employment or working conditions, or for a relative or person who you reside with.

A public hearing in the matter will be held at 10 a.m. Dec. 10 at the West Virginia Ethics Commission office in Charleston before independent hearing examiner Jeffery G. Blaydes.

Thomas could not be reached for comment Monday.