KC Reporter

United States Attorney Teresa Moore has announced the appointment of Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Heberle as the District Election Officer for the Western District of Missouri. Heberle will oversee election day complaints related to voting rights, threats against election officials, and election fraud for the upcoming general election on November 5, 2024.

Moore emphasized the importance of a fair electoral process: “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence.”

The Department of Justice aims to prevent discrimination and intimidation at polling places, protect against threats towards election workers, and combat fraud. The longstanding Election Day Program seeks to maintain public confidence by providing local contact points for reporting potential federal election law violations.

Federal laws protect against crimes such as voter intimidation, bribery, impersonation, altering vote counts, ballot stuffing, and unauthorized marking of ballots. These laws ensure voters can cast their votes freely without interference or coercion.

Moore stated: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose.” AUSA/DEO Heberle will be available during polling hours at (816) 426-4233 for any complaints regarding voting rights or fraud.

Additionally, FBI special agents will be present nationwide on election day to handle allegations of fraud or abuse. The local FBI field office can be contacted at (816) 512-8200.

Complaints about federal voting rights violations can also be submitted directly to the Civil Rights Division via https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by calling 800-253-3931.

Moore highlighted the role of citizens in ensuring electoral integrity: “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.”

In cases involving violence or intimidation at polling places, individuals are advised to contact local authorities immediately by calling 911 before reaching out to federal agencies.