St Lucie County Commissioner Erin Lowry is under investigation following allegations she did not reside in her elected district when sworn into office. Lowry, elected on November 5, 2024, officially assumed office on November 19, 2024, but recent complaints question her residency compliance.
Residency Allegations Against St Lucie County Commissioner
The investigation emerged after St Lucie County resident and business owner Joe Edge filed formal complaints in December 2024. Edge alleges Lowry perjured herself by claiming residency within the district she was elected to represent, despite evidence suggesting otherwise.
“On November 19, she perjured herself. She lived outside her district,” Edge stated during a recent county commission meeting.
Details of the Complaint and Investigation
Edge’s complaints were submitted to multiple authorities, including the governor’s office, the Florida Ethics Commission, and the Florida Elections Commission. He asserts Lowry knowingly misrepresented her residency status, violating election laws and disenfranchising voters.
“It has come to my attention that newly elected St Lucie County Commissioner Erin Ann Lowry has perjured herself and misrepresented her residency within St Lucie County,” Edge stated in his complaint. “She did so knowingly and with intent to defraud the residents and every voter in St Lucie County.”
Evidence Presented by Private Investigator
A private investigator hired by Edge reportedly surveilled Lowry on election night and the night of her swearing-in ceremony. According to the investigator’s findings, Lowry returned to a residence located outside her elected district on both occasions.
Official Records Show Residency Discrepancies
Through a records request, WPTV verified that Lowry listed her home address on November 19, 2024, as NW Stratford Lane in Port St Lucie. County maps confirm this address is located in Commissioner Jamie Fowler’s district, not the district Lowry was elected to represent.
Further records indicate Lowry requested an address change in December 2024 to a home on Dupre Street, which is correctly located within her elected district. Utility records from Port St Lucie utility department show a move-in date of January 7, 2025, under Lowry’s name at the Dupre Street residence.
Response from Commissioner Erin Lowry
When approached by WPTV anchor Meghan McRoberts during a February county commission meeting, Lowry declined to comment directly on the allegations.
“I did talk to my legal team. I just can’t comment right now,” Lowry said. “As soon as we are through the investigation, because everything right now is confidential, I’ll absolutely invite you to come back.”
Supervisor of Elections Clarifies Residency Rules
Gertrude Walker, St Lucie County Supervisor of Elections, explained via email that residency requirements mandate candidates must reside in their elected district at the time they assume office, not necessarily when filing paperwork initially.
“My office is required to accept all filing paperwork received and has no authority regarding enforcement of the residency requirement,” Walker clarified.
Residency Verification Process Questioned
Martin County Supervisor of Elections Vicki Davis confirmed to WPTV that residency verification relies largely on an honor system, encouraging residents to report any discrepancies they notice.
“It is an honor system,” Davis said. “Run in the district where you live. These candidates are being elected to be public servants. They’re there to serve their constituency.”
Current Status of the Investigation
The St Lucie County Sheriff’s Office has reviewed the initial complaint and related evidence. WPTV has requested updates from the Florida Elections Commission regarding the status of their investigation but has yet to receive a response.
Frequently Asked Questions About St Lucie County Commissioner Investigation
What is the residency requirement for St Lucie County commissioners?
Commissioners must live in the district they represent at the time they officially take office. They do not have to live there when initially filing paperwork to run.
How much evidence is needed to prove residency violations?
Evidence typically includes official documents, utility records, and eyewitness accounts. Investigations may also include surveillance and statements from involved parties.
Are there penalties if a commissioner violates residency requirements?
Yes, penalties can include removal from office, fines, or legal action. The severity depends on the investigation’s findings and the specific circumstances.
Can residents report suspected residency violations?
Yes, residents are encouraged to report any suspected residency violations to local election officials, ethics commissions, or law enforcement agencies.
Where are official residency records kept in Port St Lucie?
Residency records are maintained by the St Lucie County Supervisor of Elections office and the City of Port St Lucie utility departments. These records are accessible through public records requests.
Stay informed about the latest developments on the St Lucie County commissioner investigation. Read about related incidents that highlight the importance of law enforcement accountability.
Port St Lucie Talks
