Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the arrest of Modesta Vela in Starr County for her role in an illegal ballot harvesting scheme connected to the 2022 general election.
The arrest stems from a years-long investigation by Paxton's office into ballot harvesting operations that allegedly targeted Texans over the age of 65. Investigators found evidence that Vela intentionally and knowingly influenced a voter's decision in the presence of their ballot, a violation of Texas election law.
A Starr County grand jury subsequently issued a true bill indictment, and Vela was taken into custody. The offense is classified as a state jail felony.
"Though Liberals and the left-wing media like pretend otherwise, we know that election fraud is real and a serious threat," Paxton said. "Criminals trying to steal our elections and rig the democratic process will be found, arrested and prosecuted."
Paxton has made prosecuting election fraud a cornerstone of his tenture, often emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Texans' votes and maintaining trust in the democratic process. The case against Vela highlights his office's continued focus on pursuing individuals accused of manipulating elections.
"Modesta Vela was trying to take advantage of voters and broke the law by illegally ballot harvesting and targeting a Texan seeking to engage in our elections," Paxton expressed. "Now it's time for Vela to answer for her actions in Court."
If convicted, Vela faces the penalties associated with a state jail felony, which can include jail time and fines. Her case will proceed through the Starr County courts.
