LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)-- The Lancaster County Board of Elections announced staff members identified approximately 2,500 suspected fraudulent voter registration applications that were dropped off at the county election office.
According to the Board of Elections, the voter registration applications were dropped off in two separate batches at or near the submission deadline. Officials say it does not appear the fraudulent applications favored one political party over another and that the apparent operation began in July.
The board says concerns were raised during the application review process, and law enforcement was immediately notified.
District Attorney Heather Adams said in a press conference that 60% of the suspected applications that have been reviewed at this time have been verified as fraudulent. Verified fraudulent applications had a variety of inaccuracies, including names that didn't match personal information (such as social security information or addresses), duplicate handwriting on applications filled out the same day, and inconsistent signatures.
DA Adams added that some fraudulent applications included matching names and personal information; however, detectives verified these individuals did not register or fill out said applications.
Adams says the preliminary investigation indicates that the fraudulent voter registration applications are connected to a large-scale canvassing operation for voter registrations that dates back to June. A majority of applications received are dated August 15 and after and many individuals were asked to register in public places such as parks and stores.
The majority of applications were from residents in the City of Lancaster. Applications were also received from residents in Columbia, Elizabethtown, Mount Joy, Akron, Ephrata, Stevens, Strasburg, and other locations across Lancaster County.
Those canvassing for voter applications were employed and paid to obtain voter registration applications.
DA Adams said that other counties have launched similar investigations, but did not disclose which counties may have similar experiences. Those who suspect their voter registration was not accurately completed can check the Pennsylvania Voter Services website.
The Pennsylvania Department of State says they are aware of the allegations and they applaud the efforts of the election staff who spotted the potential fraud. The department says the county followed the proper guidance in contacting law enforcement and that no eligible voter will be denied the ability to register.
"As the county’s efforts show, multiple safeguards exist to ensure the integrity of our elections, and Pennsylvanians can have confidence that this November’s election will be safe, secure, free, and fair," said the Department of State on Friday afternoon.
The investigation is ongoing and there is no word on potential suspects at this time.
A press conference with Lancaster County officials can be watched below in its entirety.
"Our Lancaster County Elections system is secure," reiterated the Lancaster County Board of Elections. "Our systems worked. We will continue to operate with the highest levels of veracity, integrity, and transparency so that Lancaster County voters can be confident in our election."
