Protecting the Vote: Recent Vandalism Incidents in Los Angeles County
Election workers in downtown Los Angeles discovered burned mail-in ballots in a drop box outside the Department of Public Social Services building. The damaged ballots were found during routine collection by election staff. A separate incident of vandalism was reported at a voting center in Long Beach at Cesar E. Chavez Park. The incidents occurred just days before the upcoming election on June 2.
Los Angeles County officials stated that the ballots in the drop box appeared to have fire-related damage. The county registrar-recorder's office is investigating the incidents and working to identify affected voters. Ballot drop boxes are regularly collected by two election workers in L.A. County, and voters can use these boxes starting 29 days before election day.
Dean Logan, the registrar-recorder/county clerk, emphasized the importance of protecting voters and ensuring a fair election process. Any attempts to interfere with voting operations are taken seriously, and the office is collaborating with law enforcement to safeguard the voting process. Voters whose ballots may have been impacted will be contacted and provided with replacement options if necessary.
In a previous incident in 2020, a ballot box at the Baldwin Park Library caught fire, leading to an investigation for potential arson. Firefighters had to open the metal drop box to extinguish the fire, causing damage to numerous ballots. The Los Angeles Police Department is currently investigating the recent vandalism incidents, and voters can check their ballot status on the county registrar-recorder's website.
As election day approaches, it is crucial to ensure the integrity of the voting process and address any disruptions promptly. The county registrar-recorder's office is committed to protecting voters' rights and maintaining a secure election environment. Voters are encouraged to stay informed and participate in the electoral process with confidence.