
Cleveland, Ohio – In preparation for the upcoming Nov. 5, 2024, general elections, United States Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko has appointed two Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) as District Election Officers. AUSAs Megan R. Miller and Ava R. Dustin will play pivotal roles in ensuring election integrity throughout Ohio’s northern counties as part of the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program. Their primary responsibility will be to address Election Day complaints in coordination with the Civil Rights, Criminal, and National Security Divisions in Washington, D.C.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio serves 40 counties. AUSA Miller will oversee election-related matters in the Northeastern counties, while AUSA Dustin will manage the Northwestern region. Both will be available on Election Day to address concerns, working to ensure that any interference with voters’ rights is swiftly addressed and any attempts to manipulate the voting process are dealt with appropriately.
Federal Law Protects Election Integrity
Federal law provides robust protections against election-related crimes. These laws prohibit actions such as threatening election officials, intimidating voters, bribing or impersonating voters, altering vote counts, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots without voter consent. The Voting Rights Act further guarantees that voters can cast their ballots free from interference and allows individuals with disabilities or language barriers to receive assistance from a person of their choosing.
“The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy. Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination, and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” emphasized U.S. Attorney Lutzko. “The Department of Justice will work tirelessly to protect the integrity of our nation’s election process. We encourage anyone with specific information about voting-rights concerns, access issues, or fraudulent election activity to contact the Department of Justice.”
Reporting Election Concerns and Fraud
The Justice Department’s Election Day Program also aims to foster public confidence by offering clear channels for reporting election-related issues. On Nov. 5, AUSAs Miller and Dustin will be available throughout the day to respond to complaints regarding voter intimidation, fraud, or other concerns. AUSA Miller can be reached at 216-338-4479, and AUSA Dustin at 419-215-5444.
Additionally, the FBI will have dedicated Election Crime Coordinators stationed at each field office, including the Cleveland Field Office. These agents will be prepared to address reports of election fraud and other violations. To report potential election crimes, the public can contact the Cleveland Field Office at 216-522-1400 or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.
For violations involving federal voting rights laws, individuals may also contact the Civil Rights Division directly through civilrights.justice.gov or by calling 1-800-253-3931. In emergencies involving violence or intimidation at polling places, the public is urged to call 911 before contacting federal authorities, as state and local police are often better equipped to respond quickly.
Strengthening Public Confidence in Elections
The Justice Department’s Election Day Program aims to maintain election integrity and enhance public trust by providing accessible points of contact for reporting potential violations. In addition to coordinating with the public, the program ensures that election-related complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities for prompt resolution.
By taking proactive steps and appointing AUSAs Miller and Dustin to oversee election matters, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio reinforces its commitment to safeguarding democratic processes. As Lutzko noted, the department’s efforts are geared toward ensuring that voters can exercise their right to vote freely and fairly, while those attempting to undermine that process are held accountable.
With enhanced collaboration between the Department of Justice, the FBI, and local law enforcement, Ohioans can participate confidently in the upcoming election, knowing that their voices will be heard and protected.