Grim Evidence Of Voter Intimidation Near D.C. Ballot Box

Official mail ballot drop box outside building.

A voter intimidation incident involving scattered nails and screws near a ballot box in Washington, D.C. is under investigation, leaving the community on edge about electoral safety.

At a Glance

Police are investigating nails and screws scattered near polling places and ballot drop boxes on Election Day.
The Metropolitan Police Department has ramped up patrols and monitoring to ensure voter access.
Private security raised the alert upon seeing metal hardware on the roadway near Union Market.
Authorities urge public help to maintain democratic process safety.

Scattered Nails and Screws Raise Alarm

Washington, D.C. police are probing reports of nails and screws scattered near polling places and ballot boxes on Election Day, potentially an attempt to disrupt voter access. The incident was reported around 2 p.m. on the 1300 block of 5th Street NE. Scattered metal objects on the roadway were discovered by private security at Union Market, prompting immediate police notification.

The Metropolitan Police Department has increased its presence and monitoring around polling areas to ensure voters can safely reach ballot boxes without obstructions. This precautionary action reaffirms the commitment to maintaining a secure environment for voters exercising their democratic rights.

Voters report nails and screws found near D.C. polling place on Election Dayhttps://t.co/Z2WNLGH41q pic.twitter.com/lDm42W5pby

— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 7, 2024

Police Investigation and Public Cooperation

Authorities have issued an alert to officers, directing them to watch for nails or screws on roads near polling places or ballot boxes. Dispatch instructions called for thorough inspections of roadways in proximity to these locations. Despite vigilant efforts, no suspect has been apprehended, and no suspect information has been disclosed.

The police have expressed their commitment to remain vigilant over polling areas throughout the evening. This readiness exemplifies the department’s dedication to upholding electoral integrity.

NEW: D.C. police officers were told to be on the lookout for nails or screws dropped on roads near polling places or ballot boxes on Election Day.

The alert came after voters reported a man dropped several handfuls of nails and screws on the street near a drop box close to Union… pic.twitter.com/MhmE8T51Pw

— Melissa Hallman (@dotconnectinga) November 5, 2024

Community Engagement and Voter Assurance

The incident has triggered an outreach effort encouraging public engagement in safeguarding democracy. Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities by calling 202-727-9099 or texting 50411. This collective effort aims to fortify election security while reinforcing public faith in the safety and accessibility of voter participation.

Washington, D.C. police continue to monitor areas surrounding polling places and ballot boxes, striving to resolve safety concerns. Ensuring a smooth and unobstructed voting process remains a priority as the investigation unfolds.