Johnson County, IN – As the election season begins, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents that stealing or damaging political signs is a crime. Political signs, which support democratic processes, are often costly, and tampering with them can result in criminal charges.
According to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, theft of property valued over $750 is classified as a Level 6 felony under Indiana law. Stealing property worth less than that, including political signs, is a Class A misdemeanor. Criminal conversion, which covers unauthorized control of another person’s property, is also a misdemeanor.
Sheriff Duane E. Burgess stated that such thefts will not be tolerated in Johnson County. “We encourage our residents to respect the rights and property of others. If you’re caught taking or damaging signs, you will face legal consequences,” he said.
Officials urge anyone witnessing the theft or damage of political signs to report it immediately. Authorities emphasize that these signs are vital for free expression and part of the democratic process.
