Noncitizens Face Indictment in Ohio’s Election Integrity Case

People standing in line holding voting papers.

Ohio indicts six noncitizens for illegal voting, sparking debate on election integrity and citizenship requirements.

At a Glance

  • Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced six indictments for voter fraud out of nearly 140 referrals.
  • Five indictments involved legal US permanent residents who were not citizens; one involved a noncitizen accused of voting in multiple past elections.
  • Only two of the indictments were related to the 2020 election.
  • Illegal voting is a fourth-degree felony with penalties up to 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Ohio Cracks Down on Noncitizen Voting

Ohio’s commitment to election integrity has taken center stage as Attorney General Dave Yost announced the indictment of six noncitizens for allegedly engaging in illegal voting activities. The announcement, made just two weeks before a crucial election involving presidential, Senate, and state Supreme Court races, underscores the state’s determination to maintain the sanctity of its electoral process.

The indictments stem from nearly 140 referrals investigated by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Of the seven cases presented to grand juries, six resulted in indictments, while one case was not pursued. Five of the indicted individuals are legal US permanent residents who are not citizens, while the sixth case involves a noncitizen accused of voting in multiple past elections.

Implications and Penalties

The gravity of these charges is reflected in Ohio’s classification of illegal voting as a fourth-degree felony. Convicted individuals could face up to 18 months in prison and fines of up to $5,000. This stringent approach sends a clear message about the state’s stance on election integrity and the importance of citizenship in the voting process. “The right to vote is sacred,” Yost said. “If you’re not a US citizen, it’s illegal to vote – whether you thought you were allowed to or not – you will be held accountable.”

It’s important to note that only two of the indictments were related to the 2020 election, suggesting that these cases span multiple election cycles. The Attorney General’s office continues to investigate voter fraud and has made additional referrals to county prosecutors, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to electoral integrity.

Proactive Measures and Ongoing Vigilance

Ohio’s approach to election security extends beyond these indictments. Secretary of State Frank LaRose’s Election Integrity Unit has been proactive in warning county boards to be vigilant about voter registration. This includes scrutiny of third-party groups and paid canvassers involved in the registration process.

“Secretary of State Frank LaRose announced in September that his Election Integrity Unit issued a warning to Ohio’s 88 county boards of elections to be vigilant in voter registration and specifically mentioned third-party groups and paid canvassers.”

The state’s commitment to election integrity is further evidenced by an investigation into an illegal voter registration form translated into Haitian Creole, highlighting the comprehensive nature of Ohio’s efforts to ensure fair and legal elections.

Balancing Act: Integrity and Confidence

While these indictments demonstrate Ohio’s dedication to election integrity, officials are also careful to maintain public confidence in the electoral system. Attorney General Yost emphasized the rarity of such irregularities and assured voters of the overall security of the upcoming election. “Irregularities like this are rare, and this is a small number of cases,” Yost said. “We should all be confident in the upcoming election, knowing that the laws are being enforced and will continue to be enforced.”

As Ohio prepares for its upcoming elections, these indictments serve as a reminder of the state’s commitment to upholding the integrity of its democratic processes. While ensuring that only eligible citizens participate in elections, Ohio officials are also working to maintain a balance that preserves public trust in the system.

Sources:

  1. Six indictments in Ohio allege non-U.S. citizens voted
  1. Ohio Attorney General announces six indictments for voter fraud: ‘The right to vote is sacred’
  1. 6 non-citizens indicted for illegally voting in Ohio
  1. Grand jury indicts six legal, noncitizen immigrants for felony illegal voting
  1. Six indicted for voter fraud in Ohio