Clerk, Sheriff remind residents to respect political signage

There have been reports of political campaign signs either being destroyed or stolen in recent days. Law enforcement officials in Shoshone County would like to remind residents that this is illegal and will be taken seriously.

As Shoshone County has several contested races this year on the ballot, it has become a bigger problem more than it usually is.

“Due to the recent reports of political sign theft, graffiti and damage, we want to remind the public that it is against the law to steal, graffiti and/or damage political signs," said Shoshone County Clerk Tamie Eberhard. "Each candidate, whether they are Democrat or Republican, or any other party have worked hard to campaign for the position they are seeking. Campaigns can become very expensive and time consuming. We are asking the public to not engage in any of these crimes. Local law enforcement has been advised of the situation.”

Sheriff Mike Gunderson added that it is a violation of the law to remove or damage any campaign sign.

"We do take this seriously and will be arresting anyone caught tampering with or removing signs. Anyone that witnesses someone damaging or removing a sign is encouraged to report it to local law enforcement. This will not be tolerated.”

Eberhard asks candidates to please research where they are allowed to place signs and be sure and obtain permission from property owners to place signs on private lands.

"Candidates, please alert your supporters that supporting the candidate of their choice does not give them the right to destroy or steal another candidate’s political campaign sign," she said. "Please alert local law enforcement if you see this happening."