Local authorities comment on election security in San Diego County

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- As Election Day approaches, local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in San Diego County are collaborating to ensure "a safe and rewarding experience for all voters."

Specifically, the San Diego County Sheriff's Office is taking proactive measures to monitor potential threats, though current assessments indicate no credible threats to the community, authorities said in a press release Thursday regarding local election security.

Sheriff Kelly A. Martinez emphasized the importance of public safety and the agency's readiness to respond to any incidents, stating, "Over the last year, we have held multiple internal and external trainings in preparation for any event that might take place related to election activities. The Sheriff's Office will have the Sheriff's Operation Center staffed next week to quickly react and respond to any incident that could happen."

Sheriff Martinez also explained that local authorities will respect everyone's right to express their opinion under the First Amendment, also urging the public to behave in a way that is respectful of others amid Election Day.

The FBI San Diego has also confirmed that there are no known threats to voters or election staff. "The FBI remains committed to ensuring a safe election process, free from intimidation and violence," stated an FBI representative. "Everyone is entitled to their personal views and voices as protected by our First Amendment. Should that devolve into violence, criminal activity or threaten our national security, the FBI will investigate with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to swiftly bring those accountable to justice."

The San Diego Police Department, along with other local agencies, are also committed to ensuring a peaceful voting environment. Statements from some county police departments regarding election security can be found below.

• San Diego Police Department: "Exercising your right to vote is one the most fundamental American values. The San Diego Police Department is committed to protecting this process locally and in coordination with the San Diego County Registrar of Voters, as well as our federal law enforcement partners. Any issues at polling places will be addressed swiftly if appropriate and after a call for service to law enforcement. We encourage civility before, during and after elections, no matter the outcome."
• Chief Roxana Kennedy, Chula Vista Police Department: “While there is no indication of intended disruptions at polling locations in the City of Chula Vista, I want our community to know their safety, especially when exercising their right to vote – as well as their freedom of speech – is at the top of our list throughout this election season. The law prohibits our officers from staging near election sites, but we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners in the region to assess and mitigate safety concerns, and our officers will be at the ready to respond to any calls for help.”  
• El Cajon Police Department: "The El Cajon Police Department is actively enhancing safety and security measures for Election Day by increasing patrols and collaborating closely with local, state, and federal officials to ensure a safe voting environment. We are committed to protecting the rights of all voters while fostering a sense of community trust and safety throughout the election process."
• Carlsbad Police Department: "The Carlsbad Police Department is dedicated to providing a safe and respectful environment for all voters on Election Day and in the days that follow. We are coordinating closely with local officials, as well as our mutual aid partners, and we will actively monitor for any disturbances to ensure every citizen can exercise their right to vote peacefully and securely."
• San Diego Law Enforcement Coordination Center (SD-LECC): "The San Diego Law Enforcement Coordination Center has been working closely with state, local and federal partners in preparation for the upcoming election. The SD-LECC has an interactive Election Dashboard for law enforcement and governmental emergency managers to share election related issues in real-time. The dashboard has all election polling locations in San Diego and Imperial Counties with emergency contact information and other related data to assist personnel with communications and decision-making. The San Diego Law Enforcement Coordination Center is not aware of any credible threats to San Diego or Imperial Counties; however, the SD-LECC will be monitoring the situation throughout the election process with its state, local and federal partners."

The Sheriff's Office is urging the public to report any concerns regarding potential threats on Election Day to local authorities. For emergencies, individuals should call 9-1-1.

For more information about election security from the San Diego County Registrar of Voters, click here.

Election Day takes place on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.