WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A controversy regarding a decision not to use ballot drop boxes in Luzerne County for the November election is taking yet another turn.
County Manager Romilda Crocamo, who made the decision citing safety and security concerns, is now asking the State Attorney General to investigate her decision.
All of this comes after critics of her decision, also requested the attorney general, to investigate that decision.
"It was a very difficult decision to make and it's the right decision and it really was based on the safety and security of our election workers," Crocamo said.
Crocamo stands by that decision. She has come under fire from many who question the reasoning behind that decision.
Crocamo sent a letter to State Attorney General Michelle Henry on Wednesday.
"I want the attorney general and the public to know the attorney general can come in to investigate. I'm open to answer any questions as to the reasons why I made the decision I made and why I have the authority to make that decision," Crocamo explained.
She insists it's all about keeping county election workers and the public safe.
"We have only a limited amount of resources available for safety and security and I appreciate the individuals who want drop boxes, but I want to make sure polling sites and the human beings that are at the polling sites and my staff are safe. That's my priority," Crocamo added.
Critics of that decision have also requested the attorney general to investigate that decision.
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The leaders of the Democratic and Republican parties in Luzerne County weighed in on that decision and their reaction was split along party lines.
"The decision on its face is way too close to the election to change the way people can vote. I'm a big proponent of letting people vote in multiple ways in a way they feel most comfortable and most convenient for them," said Luzerne County Democratic Party Chairman Thomas Shubilla.
"What we're concerned about is the security and integrity of the drop boxes and when they are just sitting out in the world for anyone to have access to voters, how is that secure?" Luzerne County Gop Chairman Gene Ziemba asked.
28/22 News reached out to the State Attorney General's Office for comment on these two requests for an investigation. They had no comment.
