Michael Baylous tapped to lead West Virginia Department of Homeland Security

Governor Patrick Morrisey has appointed Michael Baylous to serve as Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security, according to a press release from the governor’s office.

“Michael Baylous is a proven leader with deep experience protecting communities, managing complex operations, and coordinating across agencies,” Governor Morrisey said. “He understands public safety from the ground up, and he has earned the trust of law enforcement, emergency responders, and communities across our state. He is exactly the kind of steady, experienced leadership West Virginia needs at DHS.”

Baylous brings more than three decades of experience in law enforcement, public safety and emergency operations at the federal and state levels, most recently serving as United States Marshal for the Southern District of West Virginia.

As U.S. Marshal, Baylous directed law enforcement operations across Southern West Virginia, overseeing fugitive apprehension efforts, judicial security and multi-agency task forces targeting violent crime and human trafficking. Under his leadership, coordinated enforcement initiatives led to hundreds of felony arrests and the recovery of missing children.

Baylous also implemented operational reforms to improve efficiency and worked closely with federal, state and local partners to strengthen public safety coordination. His career includes prior service with the West Virginia State Police, where he held leadership roles in logistics, investigations and public information.

“From natural disasters to public safety threats, DHS plays a critical role in keeping West Virginians safe,” Morrisey said. “Michael Baylous has spent his career preparing for exactly these challenges.”