EMERSON PUSHES FOR VOTER FRAUD INVESTIGATION

U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson has urged U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno for a full investigation into allegations of voter fraud in the Bootheel.

The alleged fraud is said to have involved paying individuals in cash or coupons for liquor to vote for Democratic candidates on the Nov. 5 ballot.

Emerson asked the Justice Department to look into the matter in a letter dated Tuesday.

"Your office's full involvement and support of an investigation is needed for the integrity of our voting process to remain intact," Emerson said in the letter. "Anything less will leave a dark cloud over the Nov. 5 elections in Mississippi County, and, indeed, on our entire election process."

Similar fraud was also reported in New Madrid County, but was not mentioned in Emerson's letter.

The U.S. Attorney's office in Cape Girardeau and the FBI launched a preliminary investigation into the matter Nov. 6. Area Republicans provided authorities with videotape showing the alleged fraud taking place.

Officials with the Cape Girardeau U.S. Attorney's office declined to comment on the status of their efforts Wednesday.

Justice Department spokesman John Russell could not confirm Wednesday whether an investigation was already taking place, but he said Reno would consider Emerson's request.

"The attorney general has always said that she will take a look at any matter that warrants investigation," Russell said.

Emerson said in her letter that a comprehensive investigation is vital, considering the seriousness of the claims of wrongdoing.

"First, and foremost, if such activity did occur it is a `slap in the face' to the democratic process, and those responsible should be prosecuted," Emerson wrote. "Second, if no investigation occurs, then it will appear to the citizens of the area that federal authorities have turned their back on the potential violation of federal laws."

A complete investigation, Emerson added, would either provide sufficient evidence for criminal charges or assure the public that no impropriety occurred.

David Barklage, director of the House Republican Campaign Committee, said when the accusations first came to light that the alleged fraud helped state Rep. Gene Copeland of New Madrid win a 19th term in the Missouri General Assembly. Copeland's Republican opponent in the 161st District race was Lanie Black of Charleston.