WHEELING, W.Va. — A former Wheeling Middle School principal is facing a felony child abuse charge following an investigation into an incident that allegedly occurred while he was employed by Ohio County Schools.
According to the Wheeling Police Department, Richard L. McCardle, 61, of Wheeling, has been charged with one count of child abuse.
Investigators said the case stems from a reported physical altercation involving a student and McCardle at Wheeling Middle School. Police were notified of the incident by Ohio County Schools on March 9, 2026.
Authorities said the charge was filed following what they described as a lengthy investigation conducted in consultation with the Ohio County Prosecutor’s Office.
In a statement, the Ohio County Board of Education said the district acted immediately after learning of the incident by removing the principal from his duties, making all required reports, and notifying law enforcement, state agencies, and the student’s family.
School officials said the position has since been filled and that operations within the district have continued without interruption. The district also stated it remains committed to providing a safe environment for students and staff and will continue cooperating with any ongoing investigations.
The Board of Education noted that the West Virginia Department of Education is expected to review the matter and determine whether any action will be taken regarding McCardle’s professional credentials.
McCardle turned himself in at Wheeling Police Headquarters and was arraigned in Ohio County Magistrate Court, where he posted bond.
The charge remains an allegation, and McCardle is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
