December 3, 2014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Lynette Maselli
304.357.7809
Lynette.Maselli@wvsenate.gov

STATEMENT FROM PRESIDENT

KESSLER
Today is a very difficult day for me and my family.
My 25 year old son Jacob was charged this morning with oxycodone trafficking. When I was
notified of this terrible news, I was heartbroken and disappointed, but I love my son.
Like anyone else who is dealing with substance abuse, my son needs help, as he too has suffered
from addiction. Unfortunately, I also know that this arrest may be the chance he needs to turn his
life around.
Addiction touches countless lives. Prescription drugs are a huge epidemic in our state and are an
equal opportunity destroyer. Ive spent much of my time in office talking about the dangers of
addiction and working to raise awareness and fight against it.
Today, the public was made aware that just because I am Senate President, I am no different than
any other West Virginian that is dealing with a family members addiction. I know there are
thousands of parents out there that will read this and relate to my heartbreak. What I need to be
today is Jacobs father and make sure he gets the help he needs. I ask that my son be treated no
better or worse than any other defendant, and that you respect the privacy of my family during
this difficult time.
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