PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP (WWJ) - Authorities say an investigation is underway into fake cameras set up near a ballot box in Metro Detroit.
The Plymouth Township Police Department said they were told by Plymouth Township Clerk Jerry Vorva and Plymouth Township Supervisor Kurt Heise about two “suspicious recording devices” at a voting location
The devices installed at Risen Christ Lutheran Church, located at 46250 Ann Arbor Road, ahead of Michigan's presidential primary on February 27.
“He installed a fake camera on a nearby light pole and augmented that with some kind of solar powered light switch that would activate when you put your ballot in the drop box,” Heise told WWJ’s Charlie Langton.
The motivation behind the fake cameras is unclear at this time, but there has been speculation that it was an attempt at voter intimidation.
“No matter what the motivation, it’s trespassing,” Heise said. “It’s voter interference and we are definitely taking appropriate steps to fight it.
An investigation found that the fake cameras were put up between January and February. The cameras were pointed at the drop box for absentee ballots.
Authorities do have photos of the suspect and two vehicles he used, according to a press release. A real camera was posted close to the ballot location as required by law. The camera was able to catch the suspect allegedly putting the fake cameras up.
The case is being investigated by the PTPD with assistance from State of Michigan Investigators and Special Agents from the Michigan Attorney General’s Office.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Plymouth Township Police Department at 734-354-3250. Detective Sergeant Hoffman is investigating. The case number is 24-2328.