Cobourg issues warning – do not tamper with election signs

By Cecilia Nasmith

The Town of Cobourg and Cobourg Police Service reminds citizens during the municipal-election period that stealing or damaging election signs could potentially result in criminal charges.

Many residents are noticing these signs on lawns and private properties throughout the municipality, and the police are beginning to receive complaints about these signs being removed or damaged.

In fact, removing, damaging or vandalizing election signs is a criminal offence – those found committing such offences can face charges under the Criminal Code of Canada. The Canada Elections Ac also prohibits people from interfering with the transmission of election advertising messages without proper authority.

In the case of election signs posted on private property, any person entering private property to attempt to commit an illegal act in relation to those signs is also guilty of trespassing and could be charged under the Trespass To Property Act.

If residents find that an election sign has been placed on their property without their permission, they should immediately contact the candidate's office to have it removed.

If you see anyone tampering with election signs, you are asked to contact the police at 905-372-6821 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers – call 1-800-222-TIPS or visit stopcrimehere.ca