Assistant U.S. Attorney appointed District Election Officer for Southern District of Alabama

Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) John P. Hutchins, III has been appointed District Election Officer (DEO) for the Southern District of Alabama to handle voting concerns as the general election draws nearer. 

The appointment comes as part of the U.S. Department of Justice's national Election Day Program. The DEO will be responsible for addressing voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud. 

“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election," said Sean P. Costello, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Alabama.

"Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

Hutchins can be reached by calling 251-415-7139. 

Reports about potential voting rights violations can be made by contacting the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

An announcement from Costello advised residents to call 911 in case of crimes of violence or intimidation. 

"Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate," said Costello. "It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”