Campaign signs gone missing? It may be illegal in GA to take or vandalize political ads
Campaign tactics become intense the closer the election draws, but some overzealous voters can take it too far.
Stealing campaign signs is a crime in Georgia, and the law takes it very seriously since it is treated like theft under the Georgia code.
In 2021 a Clarkston, Georgia, politician was arrested for stealing his opponent’s campaign signs during a heated race. Even though the signs only cost about $6 a piece, it is still theft, and a warrant was issued for the crime caught on camera.
Closer to home, in 2022, local candidates Teddy Reese and Zeph Baker told a news outlet this issue was impacting them, leading Harris County Sherriff Mike Jolley to issue a warning about the consequences of stealing or defacing campaign signs.
Campaign signs are considered political speech
Removing, defacing or tampering with signs placed lawfully is illegal in Georgia. This crime is covered under Code Section 16-7-58 which strictly prohibits removing posters, signs or advertisements from public or private property without permission.
However, if signs or campaign materials are placed on a property without the owner’s permission, then they have the right to remove it without penalty.
Tampering with signs is considered a misdemeanor
Violations of this code are treated, and punishable, as a misdemeanor, but each instance of theft or sign removed can be considered a separate offense.
Although there are no dedicated penalties for stealing signs, specifically, if charged, violators could face some serious consequences. The presiding judge has the final say in the sentencing, but the maximum penalties could include:
Up to 12 months in jail
A fine of up to $1,000
The election may be heating up, but it is important to remember that campaign signs and posters, no matter how ubiquitous or obnoxious they may seem, are an important part of the democratic process. They are also protected by the First Amendment, despite political affiliations, and are part of the American right to free speech.
This story was originally published September 25, 2024 at 2:28 PM.
