An employee from the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services is facing allegations of tampering with voter registration cards just weeks before the 2024 election. It all started on September 17 when officials hosted a national voting event at the Western Connecticut Mental Health Network in Torrington. By October, a complaint reached the Detective Division of the Torrington Police Department concerning possible voter registration fraud linked to this event.
The complaint highlighted that some voter registration cards submitted to the Torrington Registrar of Voters Office appeared altered. Following a detailed investigation, officers found evidence suggesting someone intentionally changed cards labeled “Republican” or “no” party affiliation to “Democrat.” This prompted a member of the city clerk’s office to contact both the police and the State Elections Enforcement Commission.
The investigation pointed to 57-year-old Arlanda Brantley as the likely suspect. The incident, initially intended as a nonpartisan, state-led voter registration event, was marred by what authorities say are Brantley’s illegal actions. On Monday, Brantley reportedly turned herself in to the police, facing five counts of fraudulent registration and five counts of primary or enrollment violations.
After her arrest, Brantley was released on a $10,000 surety bond, with a court appearance scheduled for February 10. The Torrington police have not commented on the case, and Brantley did not respond to messages left for her. Republican state Rep. Joe Canino, representing Torrington, expressed outrage over Brantley’s alleged actions, describing them as “shameful.”
Rep. Canino stressed the importance of election security and oversight, lamenting that such illegal behavior could compromise the integrity of Torrington elections. He added that there is no place for voter fraud in Connecticut. Canino also referenced other instances of voter fraud in the state, such as the incident in Bridgeport where ballots were reportedly stuffed into a drop box.
Krystin DeLucia, communications and legislative program manager at the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, confirmed to Blaze News that Brantley has been placed on administrative leave. The department emphasized that altering voter registration forms is a behavior it does not tolerate. The laws governing elections must be strictly followed, the department stated in a release to Blaze News.
The allegations against Brantley in Torrington are part of a broader pattern of Democratic voter fraud scandals that have troubled Bridgeport, Connecticut’s most populous city, for years. Recently, allegations were made against Alfredo Castillo, a Democrat Bridgeport councilman, and Wanda Geter-Pataky, vice chairwoman of the Bridgeport Democratic Party. They were accused of assisting a Spanish-speaking noncitizen in casting an absentee ballot.
Geter-Pataky also faced accusations of stuffing the ballot box just before the contentious 2023 Democratic mayoral primary. Surveillance footage reportedly showed her depositing stacks of ballots in the early morning hours of September 5, 2023. Due to these irregularities, a judge later invalidated the primary results, ordering a new election.
Despite the controversy, Democratic Mayor Joe Ganim emerged victorious in both the general election and the subsequent primary against challenger John Gomes. These events have fueled ongoing discussions about election integrity in Connecticut. The situation in Torrington adds another layer to these concerns.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the voter registration event in Torrington. The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting the need for vigilance in safeguarding the electoral process. As the investigation unfolds, state officials are under pressure to ensure such incidents do not recur.
The community in Torrington is closely following the developments, seeking reassurance that their electoral system remains fair and transparent. Meanwhile, Rep. Canino and others continue to advocate for more stringent measures to protect future elections. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining trust in democratic institutions.
For now, all eyes are on the upcoming court proceedings involving Brantley. The outcome could have broader implications for how voter registration events are conducted in the future. The case serves as a reminder of the critical role each voter plays in upholding democracy.
As discussions about election integrity persist, Connecticut residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged. The issues highlighted in Torrington and Bridgeport remind us of the ongoing challenges in ensuring free and fair elections. It is crucial that these matters are addressed with the seriousness they deserve.
The situation has sparked debates across the state, with many calling for reforms to prevent similar incidents. Ensuring that voter registration processes are secure and transparent is vital for public confidence. As the legal process continues, the focus remains on upholding the values of democracy.
Community leaders and citizens alike are urged to advocate for accountability and transparency. The lessons from Torrington and Bridgeport can inform efforts to strengthen the electoral system. The path forward requires commitment from all stakeholders to protect the integrity of elections.

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