Stolen Mail, Ballots Found at Abandoned Sacramento County Homeless Encampment

A criminal investigation is underway in Sacramento County after authorities discovered hundreds of pieces of stolen mail, including approximately 100 blank ballots intended for the upcoming statewide special election, at a recently cleared homeless encampment.

The ballots were for Proposition 50, a measure that would redraw California’s congressional districts, potentially shifting the balance of power in Congress. Sheriff’s deputies found the voting materials scattered across the site yesterday and immediately returned them to the voter registration department, where officials confirmed the ballots have been voided and will not be counted. Replacement ballots are being sent to the affected voters.

“It’s a big deal and it’s an undertaking,” said Sergeant Amar Gandhi, a spokesperson for the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office. “So this is something that will work in conjunction with the post office as well… Whether it’s mail in or some other method, make sure you’re taking the steps to track it and making sure your vote counts.” The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigates mail theft and election crimes.

Every active registered voter in California will receive a vote-by-mail ballot for the November 4 election, and officials urge anyone who does not receive a ballot to contact their county elections office. The deadline to register to vote is Monday, October 20. This incident raises concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement and the security of mail-in ballots.

Investigators are now working to determine who is responsible for the stolen mail and ballots, a process that will involve collaboration with the postal service.