2006 News

November 3 , 2006

Bucks County DA, Board of Elections Remind That Tampering With Voting Machines Is A Crime

In an effort to prepare for any contingency during next Tuesday’s general election, the Bucks County District Attorney’s office and the Board of Elections have issued a warning that tampering or attempting to disable voting machines is punishable by up to two years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Voters will also be reminded of the warning with signs posted at polling places.

Charles H. Martin, chairman of the Board of Elections, expects to have a flawless election, but at the same time, doesn’t discount that there may be attempts to cause problems. “The majority of the voters in Bucks County genuinely want to come out, make their selections, push the green ‘vote’ button, have their voice heard, and be on their way. It’s our responsibility to provide the process that allows that to occur.”

District Attorney Diane Gibbons notes that anyone tampering with or attempting to disable voting machines will be prosecuted aggressively. “We will not tolerate anyone compromising the integrity of this election,” Gibbons stated, adding that tampering is not simply a prank, but a crime that has serious consequences.

In addition to federal observers dispatched by the US Department of Justice to 20 different states including Pennsylvania, Bucks County will also have a team of trained observers/facilitators.  Anyone witnessing a questionable activity should report it to the local judge of elections or the county Board of Elections at 215-348-6154.

Chief Operating Officer David Sanko says that with expertly trained and watchful judges of elections, there isn’t a serious cause for alarm. Rather, the county is simply acting with prudence in its preparations. “I subscribe to the philosophy that it’s better to be prepared.”

Deena Dean, director of the Board of Elections, looks forward to Election Day. “There has been so much attention geared toward this November 7, and I anticipate a great turnout.” She encourages all registered voters to go to the polls, confident that all procedures are in place to ensure a fair election.