MINNEAPOLIS — In a significant development concerning election integrity, a Nevada man has pleaded guilty to conspiracy related to voter registration fraud in Minnesota. Ronnie Williams, 58, made his plea in front of U.S. District Judge Laura Provinzino in St. Paul this week.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson emphasized the importance of maintaining free and fair elections, stating, “Any attempt to undermine that process through fraud will be investigated and prosecuted.” He noted that this case serves as a stark reminder that election fraud will not be tolerated in Minnesota.
Williams’ accomplice, Lorraine Lee Combs, 57, had previously entered a guilty plea on June 24. Her plea agreement suggested a potential sentence of zero to six months in prison, along with possible terms of supervised release and a fine. The specific sentences will ultimately be determined by the judge, although each charge could carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Sentencing dates are yet to be announced, and both defendants remain free for now.
The two were accused of creating fake names and other information to fill out voter registration forms in Minnesota during 2021 and 2022. According to the charges, Williams submitted these forms to a group seeking to register voters, which is referred to only as “Foundation 1.” It’s claimed that he and Combs split payments they received for their efforts.
It was noted that the pair had a long-term romantic relationship, and there may have been additional individuals involved in this alleged conspiracy, though no further charges have been made public.
While instances of voter fraud are rare, officials maintain that the systems in place are effective at detecting and addressing such issues. Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon remarked that the extensive checks in the state’s voter registration process quickly identified the fraudulent applications, ensuring that no ineligible votes were cast.
Both individuals are originally from Minnesota, though they currently reside in Nevada. Records indicate that they faced eviction from an apartment in West St. Paul earlier this year.
