W. Va. Code § 14-1-36: Settlement with sureties.

Whenever it shall appear to the satisfaction of the Auditor that the sureties of a defaulting assessor or sheriff will be compelled to pay the indebtedness of such defaulting officer, he may, with the advice and consent of the Attorney General, settle with such sureties by receiving the amount of the principal with interest thereon at the rate of six per cent per annum: Provided, That the sureties will pay the amount into the treasury before suit is brought.