CHEYENNE, Wyo. — With Election Day underway, law enforcement agencies in Laramie County have increased their efforts to ensure a safe and secure voting experience. Both the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office and the Cheyenne Police Department are coordinating security measures to maintain order and protect voters.
Laramie County Leads Polling Site Security
Undersheriff Chance Walkama from the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that his agency is leading security at polling sites. “If a crime is determined to have occurred, you can be assured that we will take the necessary action,” Walkama stated. In partnership with the Laramie County Clerk’s Office, the LSCO organized security patrols at all voting centers in the county.
In preparation for Election Day, Walkama said the LSCO conducted specialized training on de-escalation and conflict management. The training, held in conjunction with the Committee for Safe and Secure Elections, included a variety of tabletop exercises focused on conflict management, de-escalation techniques and tactical strategies to maintain a safe environment at polling places, according to Walkama.
Though no specific threats have been identified, local law enforcement remains vigilant, closely monitoring national trends to adapt to any potential disruptions.
Cheyenne Police Ready to Respond
While primary security rests with the LSCO, the Cheyenne Police Department remains on standby. According to the CPD, they have not been asked to provide security at polling locations; however, officers will be available if called upon to respond to an incident.
Officers have been briefed on polling locations and will patrol those areas throughout the day. The department emphasized its readiness to respond to incidents, though no local threats have been reported.
the CPD added that incidents/disruptions involving elections appear to be rare in Cheyenne; however, they always encourage citizens to be vigilant and to contact them if they see or hear anything suspicious. For emergency situations, residents are advised to dial 911.
Strict Enforcement Against Intimidation and Disruption
Both agencies underscored Wyoming’s strict laws on voter intimidation and disruptions at polling sites. According to Wyoming State Statute 22-26-111, “intimidation consists of … inducing, or attempting to induce, fear in an election official or elector by use of threats of force, violence, harm or loss.”
Causing a disturbance at a polling place or tampering with voting equipment is also a punishable offense, according to the Committee for Safe and Secure Elections.
Law enforcement is committed to investigating any intimidation or interference complaints, Walkama said. “If a crime is determined to have occurred, you can be assured that we will take the necessary action.”
Voter Resources Available
For voters who experience safety concerns or witness disruptions, the LSCO and CPD provide non-emergency assistance numbers: the LSCO can be reached at 307-637-6524, and CPD’s dispatch center can be reached at 307-637-6525. In emergencies, voters should dial 911.
