Just days after a fiercely contested presidential election, Modoc County’s election office was shaken by a bomb threat that triggered a rapid response from local and federal authorities. Modoc County Auditor and Clerk/Registrar of Voters Stephanie Wellemeyer received an alarming email claiming that a bomb was planted in her office, set to detonate with the arrival of a large police presence.
Wellemeyer immediately alerted local authorities, prompting a thorough investigation at the Auditor’s office. A specialized bomb squad from the Redding/Shasta County area was deployed to search the premises. After an extensive sweep, officials confirmed that the building was safe, finding no credible physical threat.
“We take all such threats seriously and are working closely with the FBI, state authorities, the Alturas Police Department, and the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office to ensure the safety of our staff and community,” Wellemeyer stated. The election official underscored the need for vigilance as threats against election offices are reportedly on the rise nationwide.
The incident was reported to the FBI and California’s Secretary of State, joining a growing list of similar threats targeting election offices in California and other states. According to the FBI, such threats have intensified in the aftermath of the election, casting a shadow over election workers and the voting process itself.
While the threat was unfounded, Modoc County officials say they will remain vigilant, cooperating with state and federal authorities to ensure safety and address the increasing challenges facing election offices nationwide.
