As election season approaches, law enforcement agencies are gearing up to ensure the safety and security of election officials, voters, and the general public. With varying local laws and threat landscapes, strategies for maintaining a secure voting environment differ from one jurisdiction to another, influenced by factors such as community expectations, historical experiences, and current threat levels.
While some jurisdictions have statutes limiting law enforcement’s roles at polling sites, others expect their presence at key locations. Despite these variations, there are overarching strategies that can assist every department in preparing for a safe and secure election season.
In a recent episode of The COPS Office’s What’s New in Blue podcast, Sheriff (Ret.) Paul Penzone from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office in Arizona and Chief Chris Davis of the Green Bay Police Department in Wisconsin shared their insights on election security. They emphasized the significance of advanced planning, a thorough understanding of relevant laws, and collaboration with community partners, particularly in the face of threats targeting voters, election officials, or polling places.