voter intimidation, on the other hand, is to deter or influence voting
activity through threats to deprive voters of something they already
have, such as jobs, government benefits, or, in extreme cases, their
personal safety. Another distinction between vote-buying and
intimidation is that bribery generates concrete evidence: the payment
itself (generally money). Intimidation, on the other hand, is
amorphous and largely subjective in nature, and lacks such concrete
evidence.
Voter intimidation warrants prompt and effective redress by the
criminal justice system. Yet a number of factors make it difficult to
prosecute. The intimidation is likely to be both subtle and without
witnesses. Furthermore, voters who have been intimidated are not
merely victims; it is their testimony that proves the crime. These voters
must testify, publicly and in an adversarial proceeding, against the
very person who intimidated them. Obtaining this crucial testimony
must be done carefully and respectfully. Because such offenses often
occur in remote and insular communities, investigators should increase
their efforts to maintain contact with voters, especially after charges
are brought. Prosecutors should consider “locking in” testimony in
grand jury sessions even at the risk of creating some negative Jencks
material. 24
The crime of voter “intimidation” normally requires evidence of
threats, duress, economic coercion, or some other aggravating factor
that tends to improperly induce conduct on the part of the victim.
If such evidence is lacking, an alternative prosecutive theory may apply
to the facts, such as multiple- voting in violation of 52 U.S.C.
§ 10307(e). Indeed, in certain cases the concepts of “intimidation”
and “voting more than once” might overlap and even merge. For
example, a scheme that targets the votes of persons who are mentally
handicapped, economically depressed, or socially vulnerable may
involve elements of both crimes. Because of their vulnerability, these
Federal prosecutors should be mindful of Department resources and policies
regarding the rights of victims and the concerns regarding their use as witnesses, and should
consult with the victim-witness coordinator in their Office or Division.
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