Ballot Drop Box Damaged by Fire Near LA Civic Center; Authorities Refuse to Blame Homeless Encampment Nearby

LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles County election officials are investigating fire-related damage to a small number of Vote-by-Mail ballots found inside an official ballot drop box at the Department of Public Social Services-Civic Center location. Separately, LA Mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt released a video showing homeless people encamped near that same ballot box.

According to a May 31, 2026 news release from the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk, the damage was discovered during a routine collection and appears to have occurred between the previous scheduled pickup and the following morning. Officials described the incident as isolated and limited in scope.

"The department has filed a report with the Los Angeles Police Department and is cooperating with any investigation. Affected voters, if identified, will be contacted directly and offered replacement ballots or other options" said Logan's office.

A separate act of vandalism was also reported Sunday morning at the Vote Center at Cesar E. Chavez Park. Authorities emphasized that voting operations were not disrupted in either case, not wanting to discourage voters from turning in the Vote by Mail Ballots.

Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk Dean C. Logan and Los Angeles County Board Chair Hilda L. Solis said that any interference with the electoral process will not be tolerated and will be fully investigated under state and federal laws.

The incidents come two days before the June 2, 2026 Statewide Direct Primary Election. Voters with concerns can contact the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk at (800) 815-2666, option 2, or visit LAVOTE.GOV.