RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — With Election Day about two weeks away, and with North Carolina voters already casting ballots in early voting, some homeowners are voicing concerns over the theft of political signs.
Raleigh homeowner John Scarborough said he had a makeshift sign supporting Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden withdrew from the 2024 presidential race. After his first sign was stolen, he ordered more.
“It was pretty irritating that somebody came on my property and removed the sign,” he said. “I got some gold craft glitter, mixed it up with some Vaseline, and smeared it on all four edges. I don’t want anybody to get hurt, but I want them to at least understand actions have consequences.”
“While we appreciate the hard work and dedication he has shown to the Democratic Party and the community, the Moore County Democratic Party cannot and will not condone the tampering of political signs or any other illegal activity,” the party said in a post on Facebook.
The consequences of stealing a political sign can go beyond a handful of glitter. Under state law, anyone caught stealing or vandalizing a political sign that’s been placed legally can be charged with a misdemeanor.
“We take it very seriously,” said Sgt. Juan Collado with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office. “Don’t do it. Why take the risk? We all have the right to discuss our personal opinions.”
Collado said the theft of political signs is not often reported to law enforcement, but he encourages anyone who’s had a sign stolen or vandalized to reach out to their local police department.
State law also regulates political signs on public property. These laws include what types of roads they can be placed on, how close to the road they can be, their size, and whether they impede the vision of drivers at an intersection. City of Raleigh officials said they take a look at any potential violations on public property by complainants.
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