Urgent Arrest Made in New Jersey Election Day Bomb Threats

UPDATE: Authorities in New Jersey have made an urgent arrest linked to bomb threats at polling sites on November 7, 2023. A juvenile was taken into custody following multiple reports of a bomb threat directed at Livingston Park Elementary School in North Brunswick, as voters faced disruptions during a critical election day.

The Middlesex County prosecutor’s office confirmed that police began investigating the situation early Tuesday after receiving text messages about the threat. Officials quickly determined the bomb threat to be a hoax, but the incident prompted significant concern and immediate action from law enforcement.

Officials recovered the electronic devices allegedly used in the threats, although it remains unclear whether the juvenile’s actions were responsible for threats made at other locations. Multiple polling places throughout New Jersey were temporarily closed as a precaution, creating confusion for voters who were redirected to different precincts.

New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin stated, “Law enforcement responded to threats that were received by email involving certain polling places,” emphasizing that while some locations have reopened, others are still redirecting voters to ensure safety. The threats impacted polling places in several counties, including Bergen, Essex, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Passaic.

The threats are reminiscent of a previous incident during the 2024 election, where bomb threats in key swing states caused widespread delays, with the FBI later attributing those threats to foreign interference.

Officials continue to maintain a robust response to ensure the security of voters and poll workers. Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way, the state’s top election official, assured the public, “We are doing everything in our power to protect voters and poll workers… to ensure a smooth and safe election.”

In a full statement, Attorney General Platkin reinforced the commitment to a free and fair electoral process, stating, “Make no mistake: We will not tolerate any attempts to interfere with our elections, and we will swiftly hold accountable anyone who seeks to interfere with the safety or security of our electoral process.”

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone who notices suspicious activity during voting to report it immediately by calling 911. The swift actions of law enforcement and the prompt response to these threats highlight the importance of maintaining safety and integrity during the electoral process.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.