How police in central Virginia are protecting voters this Election Day

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — As election day draws closer, law enforcement agencies across central Virginia are keeping the safety of voters and poll workers top of mind. According to a poll by the Brennan Center for Justice, more than one in three local election officials across the country reported experiencing threats, harassment or abuse while on the job. 8News political expert Rich Meagher said the spread of misinformation online has led some people to question poll workers' intent and credibility. "These folks are just either dedicated public servants or they're volunteers, and they're the subject of threats," said Meagher. "I think there's almost a kind of paranoia or hysteria that's growing among certain quarters of people on the Internet and that's bleeding over into real life." 30% of respondents to the Brennan Center of Justice poll reported being harassed or abused in 2023 and the number of reported threats has increased to 38% this year. "I think the rhetoric has become a little darker in the last couple of election cycles," said Meagher. This year, the Virginia Department of Elections of received a package of what officials described as a "suspicious white substance." Virginia is one of more than a dozen states to receive a similar package, according to the Associated Press. Security expert Mike Jones said these safety threats show how important it is for law enforcement agencies to prepare for potential threats. "Law enforcement agencies have been planning for this, because they know it's contentious," said Jones. "And the information sharing in the law enforcement world is better than it's ever been." 8News contacted several law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth to learn what steps are being taken to protect voters and poll workers. Richmond Police Department Will activate an Emergency Operations Center to quickly respond to election disruptions Chesterfield County Police Department Working with the registrar's office and county electoral board to implement security measures and monitor trends Will follow protocols and procedures to respond to any election concerns Henrico County Division of Police Meeting regularly with county leadership and discussing safety Working with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management to monitor concerns Officers may be requested to direct traffic on Election Day Hanover County Sheriff's Office Will continue increased police presence at polling locations to ensure safety Routinely conducting threat assessments of polling locations Working with registrar's office to address election concerns "In a state like Virginia, that isn't one of the battleground states where the pots not quite boiling as hot as it is in other states, I would expect that cooler heads will prevail," said Meagher. "But they do have to be careful." In addition to the work being done by police departments, Jones said voters can do their part to keep themselves and others safe. "Be aware of your surroundings, have your documents with you, try to vote early so you can get in and out," said Jones. "And, by all means -- if you see something, say something." Voters can report threats made against election worker to the U.S. Department of Justice.