In February 2025, Connecticut authorities charged five Democratic political operatives from Bridgeport with over 150 election-related offenses stemming from the 2023 mayoral primary. This case, one of the most significant election fraud prosecutions in the state’s history, has raised serious concerns about absentee ballot practices and election integrity.
The Accused
The individuals charged are:
- Wanda Geter-Pataky: Vice Chair of the Bridgeport Democratic Town Committee.
- Maria Pereira: City Council Member.
- Alfredo Castillo: City Council Member.
- Jazmarie Melendez: City Council Member.
- Margaret Joyce: Campaign staffer and Stratford resident.
These charges emerged from a comprehensive investigation into absentee ballot misuse during the 2023 Democratic primary between incumbent Mayor Joe Ganim and challenger John Gomes.
- Illegal possession of absentee ballots.
- Misrepresenting voter eligibility for absentee voting.
- Being present while voters completed their ballots.
- Submitting ballots on behalf of others without authorization.
Surveillance footage played a pivotal role in the investigation. Notably, Geter-Pataky was allegedly recorded depositing multiple absentee ballots into a drop box outside the city’s government center. This footage, released by Gomes’ campaign, prompted legal challenges and intensified scrutiny of the election process.
Legal Proceedings
On March 6, 2025, all five defendants appeared in Bridgeport Superior Court. The judge set their next court dates for March 21, 2025. During the proceedings, the defendants were advised of their release conditions, including restrictions on contacting potential witnesses
The charges against Geter-Pataky are particularly extensive, totaling 92 counts, including conspiracy and fraudulent voting. Castillo faces charges related to misrepresenting absentee voting eligibility and illegal possession of ballots. Pereira and Melendez are accused of orchestrating campaigns to sign up hundreds of voters for absentee ballots, with allegations of misrepresentation and improper assistance.
Political Context
Bridgeport has a history of election controversies. In 2019, similar allegations of absentee ballot fraud surfaced, involving some of the same individuals. Mayor Joe Ganim, who served prison time for corruption before being re-elected, won the 2023 primary by 251 votes, largely due to absentee ballots. However, a state judge later overturned the results, citing “shocking” evidence of ballot tampering, leading to a court-ordered rerun of both the primary and general elections. Ganim ultimately won both do-over elections.
Broader Implications
This case has intensified debates over absentee voting and election security. In response, Connecticut lawmakers are considering establishing a Municipal Election Accountability Board to oversee local elections and ensure transparency. The proposed board would have the authority to recommend criminal investigations and enforce campaign finance regulations.
Conclusion
The Bridgeport election fraud case underscores the vulnerabilities in absentee voting systems and the importance of safeguarding electoral processes. As legal proceedings continue, the outcomes may influence future election oversight and reforms in Connecticut and beyond.
