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The incident occurred in Dutchess County at the Dutchess County Board of Elections (DCBOE) in Poughkeepsie on Monday, Oct. 7.
Office officials said a team escalated a particular piece of mail to management for a higher review "due to advanced training and heightened awareness."
Wearing personal protective equipment, this team and management commissioners thoroughly examined the suspicious package and contacted law enforcement.
Officials said all DCBOE staff were instructed to wear masks and gloves, the HVAC system was turned off, the building was closed to the public, and a table was set up outside to assist the many voters who needed services during this busy election cycle.
No staff members have reported any symptoms.
During the three hours the building was closed, officials said that not a single voter was denied assistance.
“I commend our staff for performing their daily tasks with courage and attentiveness," said Commissioner Hannah Black (D). "These duties may seem routine, but working in an election office throughout these extremely polarizing times remains a challenge.”
Under the observation of the bi-partisan elections commissioners, Dutchess County HAZMAT personnel examined the suspicious package.
The substance was tested with advanced chemical and gaseous identification equipment. HAZMAT personnel determined that the material was methamphetamine or more commonly known as “crystal meth."
“The cowards that sent this dangerous chemical to our office failed in disrupting a single voter’s right to vote or harm any of our hardworking staff members," Black added.
“I join my colleague Commissioner Black in commending our staff and am deeply appreciative of all law enforcement, the City of Poughkeepsie FD, and emergency personnel that were critical in assisting us through this stressful and dangerous ordeal," said Commissioner Erik Haight (R).
DCSO detectives and personnel took possession of the suspicious package, the methamphetamine, and will be coordinating with the New York State Police and FBI for a thorough investigation into the matter.
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