by Doug La Rocque
Rensselaer County’s Republican Election Commissioner Jason Schofield was arrested by FBI Agents Tuesday morning, September 13, and later arraigned in Federal Court in Albany on charges of ballot fraud. According to the indictment, Schofield is alleged to have taken possession of absentee ballots, brought them to voters to sign, but not actually vote—which allowed him or other individuals to cast ballots in their name. Schofield pled not guilty to the charges and was released pending future court appearances.
The FBI’s investigation into the ballot fraud case involving last November’s general election saw former Troy City Councilwoman Kim Ashe-McPherson arrested on similar charges in June, which resulted in a guilty plea and her resignation from the Council.
If convicted, Schofield could face a prison term of up to five years, a potential $250,000 fine, and probation.