Polish National Enters Not Guilty Plea in Honolulu
A 45-year-old man faces federal charges for allegedly voting in the 2024 election despite not being a U.S. citizen.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Immigration
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Dawid Nalepa, a 45-year-old Polish national, has pleaded not guilty in federal court to charges of unlawfully voting as an alien. Prosecutors allege that Nalepa, who entered the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program in 2020, cast an illegal ballot in the November 2024 election.
Why it matters
The case highlights federal enforcement efforts regarding non-citizen participation in national elections. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
The defendant is accused of voting in the November 2024 election while overstaying a visa he used to enter the country in 2020. He has been released on a $25,000 unsecured bond pending further court proceedings.
The players
Dawid Nalepa
He is a 45-year-old Polish national who is facing federal charges for allegedly voting illegally.
The details
Nalepa allegedly overstayed his visa after entering the country four years ago. He is currently navigating the federal justice system following his not guilty plea.
Timeline
Nalepa entered the United States in 2020.
The election in which Nalepa allegedly voted took place in November 2024.
Nalepa pleaded not guilty in federal court on October 20, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents of current election security measures frequently argue that the administrative burdens placed on potential voters are already sufficient to prevent unauthorized participation. Critics of this specific prosecution often point to the complexity of the visa process and the potential for bureaucratic errors in voter registration.
This case underscores the federal rules regarding voting eligibility for non-citizens. Residents should ensure they meet all legal citizenship requirements before participating in federal or local elections to avoid potential prosecution.
The takeaway
Individuals who are not citizens of the United States are prohibited by federal law from voting in national elections. It is the responsibility of every person to verify their legal standing and eligibility before registering to cast a ballot.
Further reading
For broader context on federal policy, see the latest Immigration reporting.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hawaiinewsnow.
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