Stealing campaign signs is illegal

To the editor:

The Martin County DFL is reminding everyone that it is illegal to damage or steal campaign yard signs.

Hopefully, as this election season progresses residents keep in mind that it is important to allow all Martin County residents to exercise their constitutional right to free speech and political signs are a part of that. In the event that your neighbor puts up a sign that you don’t like, please don’t think it is appropriate to take it down or deface it.

A theft of a political sign is no different than the theft of any other personal property. If someone is caught damaging or stealing campaign yard signs the offender may be charged with theft, damage to property, and trespassing.

In Minnesota, the penalty for stealing or destroying yard signs depends on their value. If it is $500 or less the maximum penalty under Minnesota law is 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

We have already received several reports of sign theft in Martin County. If anyone is taking signs for candidates of the other party, it is equally inappropriate and illegal. In the event you have information about these crimes please contact local law enforcement.

If you are looking for a sign of your own, we are out right now but they can be ordered from the state DFL at store.dfl.org.

Politics of Hope and Joy,

Karen McConnell