Portland and Vancouver Authorities Investigate Suspicious Fires Affecting Ballot Boxes
Authorities in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, are investigating a series of fires that occurred at ballot drop boxes, damaging hundreds of ballots and raising concerns about election safety. The incidents took place earlier this month, with the most recent fire reported on Monday morning.
Summary of the Incidents
The Portland Police Bureau confirmed on Monday that two ballot boxes were set on fire, one in Portland and another in Vancouver. Evidence recovered from the fire scene indicates that the fires might be linked, and they could be part of a concerning pattern of attacks aimed at disrupting the electoral process.
According to Mike Benner, a spokesperson for the Portland Police Bureau, a vehicle believed to be connected to the fires was spotted leaving the scene of the Portland incident. The vehicle is described as a black or dark-colored 2001-2004 Volvo S-60, which was missing its front plate, and has an unknown rear plate. While the police are still investigating the motives behind these acts, they expressed seriousness in ensuring that such actions do not undermine the voting process.
Details of the Fires
The first incident occurred at approximately 3:30 a.m. on Monday in Portland, where police responded to reports of a fire at a ballot drop box. An incendiary device was found attached to the side of the box. Fortunately, fire suppressant measures installed in the box prevented further damage, protecting 409 ballots while only three ballots were damaged.
Later that same morning, a second ballot box located at a bus station in Vancouver was also set ablaze. When first responders arrived, they discovered a suspicious device alongside the burning box. Vancouver Police reported that the device was smoking and posed a safety risk to the public.
Impact on Ballots and Voters
Election officials in both Portland and Vancouver are now in a race against time to assess the total damage. In Vancouver, many of the ballots were likely destroyed, affecting hundreds of voters. Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey stated that while some ballots might be duplicated and processed, others were completely ruined.
Local officials are currently advising residents who dropped off their ballots at the affected boxes recently to check with the election office about the status of their votes. Laura Shepard, a spokesperson for Vancouver, commented on how critical it is for voters to stay informed during this unsettling period.
Authorities’ Response and Investigations
With concerns mounting, Washington Governor Jay Inslee announced that enhanced security measures would be implemented around ballot drop-off sites, effective 24 hours a day. This decision emphasized the state’s commitment to guaranteeing the safety of the electoral process and the integrity of the ballots cast by voters.
Meanwhile, the FBI is conducting its separate investigation into these incidents, collaborating with local law enforcement. Their Seattle office has confirmed it is actively involved in assessing how the recent fires might align with broader security concerns surrounding the elections.
What’s Next for Voters
The Multnomah County Elections Director Tim Scott reassured the public that despite the challenges posed by the fires, measures are in place to ensure that voters’ voices are heard. Voters affected by the incidents will be contacted and offered replacement ballots to ensure their participation in the upcoming elections.
In conclusion, these incidents have drawn attention to the importance of safeguarding the electoral process. Local and federal law enforcement continue to investigate the motives behind these reckless acts while ensuring that voters are informed and safe during this crucial time.
