Investigation underway into possible break-in at ballot storage facility in Fairfield ahead of election recount

Multiple agencies are investigating a possible break-in at a ballot storage facility in Fairfield ahead of a planned recount for the town’s first selectman race.

Multiple agencies are investigating a possible break-in at a ballot storage facility in Fairfield on Thursday ahead of a planned recount for the town’s first selectman race.

Robert Kalamaras, chief of police at the Fairfield Police Department, issued a statement Thursday night saying he was informed earlier in the day by legal counsel for the Town of Fairfield of a “possible break-in at a town facility known to house election equipment and ballots.”

The chief said he immediately notified the State’s Attorney Office for the Judicial District of Fairfield and requested their assistance given “the incredible sensitivity of such a report” and the “closely contested race for first selectman in town.”

“State’s Attorney Joseph T. Corradino and the Connecticut State Police immediately responded to the Mona Terrace facility in question,” Kalamaras said. “An investigation is ongoing at this time.

“I felt it was the prudent course of action for the Connecticut State Police and State’s Attorney to investigate this matter,” Kalamaras continued. “On behalf of the Fairfield Police Department, I wish to thank and acknowledge State’s Attorney Corradino and our State Police for their immediate attention and response.”

According to the Connecticut Secretary of the State, Democrat Bill Gerber defeated Republican Brenda L. Kupchick by 42 votes in the first selectman race in Fairfield. The closely contested race is headed for a recount next week.

“Our office is aware of a potential incident that was reported Thursday night in Fairfield, near the site of the town’s secure ballot storage,” Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas said in a statement Thursday. “The Connecticut State Police and the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney are conducting an investigation to determine if a crime took place, and the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC) has been alerted. Questions about the investigation should be directed to the State Police and the Chief State’s Attorney’s office.

“Plans for Tuesday’s recount for Fairfield’s First Selectman remain in place, pending the results of the investigation,” Thomas said.