Bradford County District Attorney Richard Wilson is reminding residents that stealing political signs is a crime.
Below is the complete statement from the district attorney:
Election season is upon us! I would like to remind all county residents that stealing political signs is a crime. Theft of a sign constitutes a misdemeanor called theft by unlawful taking under Pennsylvania law. Defacing a political sign constitutes a misdemeanor called criminal mischief. A conviction for either of these offenses could result in fines, probation, or even incarceration.
We have already received reports of sign theft. In the event that you have information about such a crime, please contact the Bradford County District Attorney’s office at 570-265-1712 and ask to speak with the Bradford County Detective, and he can assist you in reaching the appropriate law enforcement agency. Some of these offenses will be handled by local police and some would be investigated by the state police.
Hopefully, as this election season progresses, residents keep in mind that it is important to allow all Bradford County residents to exercise their God given right to free speech, and political signs are a part of that. In the event that your neighbor puts up a sign you don’t like, please don’t think it is appropriate to take it down or deface it. Instead, put up your own signs! The solution is more free speech, not less.
