PEORIA (25News Now) – The Peoria County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a series of political sign thefts after signs belonging to Judge Cusack were reportedly stolen three times from the same location.
According to a sheriff’s office report from Oct. 20, the thefts occurred near Route 40 and Cedar Hills Drive. A trail camera belonging to the property owner was also reported stolen.
Peoria County Sheriff Chris Watkins says investigators are looking into whether the same person is responsible for the repeated thefts.
“Every election cycle we do get complaints of people getting a sign stolen,” Watkins said. “But if it’s a repeat offender, we can catch them on camera.”
Watkins says political sign thefts are not uncommon during election season, with candidates on both sides of the political aisle experiencing similar incidents.
While the sheriff’s office would prefer to focus its resources on more serious crimes, Watkins says deputies will investigate when evidence is available.
“If we don’t, it’s a free for all. And everyone thinks they can just go steal people’s signs, which we don’t want,” Watkins said. “We just want fair elections and the signs as part of that election. Just don’t mess with them.”
The sheriff also warned that stealing or damaging political signs can carry criminal consequences.
Depending on the circumstances, those responsible could face charges including theft, criminal trespass to property or criminal damage to property.
Watkins says these incidents take law enforcement resources away from other investigations and urges residents to respect others’ political views.
“It’s just don’t want your emotions to get the best of you,” Watkins said. “Like I said, let your vote do the talking.”
Residents who have political signs stolen or damaged are encouraged to report the incidents to their local law enforcement agency.
The investigation into the repeated thefts remains ongoing.
Comments