Illinois Lawmaker Accused of Voting Fraud with Deceased Mother’s Ballot

A city lawmaker from Illinois, Sylvia Sims Bolton, faces criminal charges for allegedly voting using her deceased mother’s ballot. Bolton, a Democrat representing Waukegan’s 1st Ward, appeared in Lake County Court after being charged with the felony of mutilation of election material and a misdemeanor for disregarding election code.

The investigation into Bolton began in March. Lake County officials discovered a problematic mail-in ballot during a post-election review. This ballot was associated with Bolton’s late mother, Mary Sims, who passed away on January 12. Despite her death, a ballot was mailed to Mary Sims on February 5. Her registration was canceled later that month after officials were informed of her death. Nevertheless, the filled-out ballot was returned to the clerk’s office on February 26.

Lake County Clerk Anthony Vega stated that Bolton completed the ballot and signed her mother’s name, aware of her impossibility to vote. “Bolton then submitted the ballot to an official Clerk’s Office ballot drop box,” Vega explained.

Vega emphasized, “The safeguards and verification procedures in place worked exactly as intended. Our staff identified the irregularity and coordinated with law enforcement for a thorough investigation. Ensuring election integrity is our highest priority.” There is no evidence connecting this incident with Bolton’s official duties.

Charged on May 19, Bolton potentially faces probation or up to three years in prison if convicted on the felony charge, or one year in jail for the misdemeanor. Attempts to reach her were unsuccessful. She was released on her own recognizance and is due back in court on July 2, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Waukegan’s public relations director, David Motley, chose not to comment on the case. Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart praised the clerk’s office for its independent and well-funded approach. “Clerk Vega and his team followed national best practices to detect and report this crime,” Rinehart said. “People must understand that improper voting will lead to detection, investigation, and prosecution.”

Authorities noted no prior investigations related to manipulating the vote-by-mail system in such a way. Research from the Brennan Center for Justice indicates voter fraud is exceedingly rare, often linked to errors rather than deliberate acts.