By: Richard L. Smith
Craig Callaway, 64, a former Atlantic City Council President and known political organizer in New Jersey, was arrested Thursday for his alleged involvement in a mail-in ballot fraud scheme during the November 8, 2022, general election.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced the charges against Callaway, which were detailed in a criminal complaint unsealed in Camden federal court.
Callaway faces charges of depriving and defrauding New Jersey residents of a fair election process through fraudulent ballot procurement, casting, and tabulation.
He made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Skahill.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger emphasized the importance of free and fair elections in democracy, condemning Callaway's actions as an attempt to undermine the electoral process.
FBI – Newark Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy highlighted the impact of voter fraud on public trust in the electoral system, reaffirming the FBI's commitment to protect electoral integrity.
Investigative documents reveal that about a month before the election, Callaway and his associates allegedly recruited individuals in Atlantic City, offering them $30 to $50 to act as messengers for mail-in voters.
These messengers, following Callaway's instructions, submitted Vote-By-Mail Applications at the Atlantic County clerk's office, receiving mail-in ballots in return.
Contrary to New Jersey law, instead of delivering these ballots to the intended voters, they were handed over to Callaway and his team.
Many of the ballots obtained and cast by Callaway and his associates were reportedly in the names of individuals who confirmed they did not vote in the 2022 General Election, either in person or by mail, and had not authorized Callaway or anyone else to vote on their behalf.
If convicted, Callaway faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine or double the gain or loss from the offense.
This case serves as a significant reminder of the ongoing efforts to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.