NBPS Reminds Residents that Election Signs are Property of the Candidates

The North Bay Police Service (NBPS) is reminding residents that election signs are property of the candidates as part of the democratic process and that damaging, removing, defacing or stealing them may constitute a criminal offence.

Regardless of whether someone supports a candidate, election signs are property and should be respected.

Theft of property valued at $5,000 or less or mischief involving property valued at $5,000 or less may result in criminal charges. Where signs are located on private property, entering the property without permission may also constitute an offence under Ontario’s Trespass to Property Act.

“Election signs are a visible part of our democratic process, and everyone has the right to support the candidate of their choice,” said A/Deputy Chief Jeff Warner. “You may not agree with a candidate or their platform, but that does not give anyone the right to remove, damage or deface their property. We are asking everyone to respect one another and allow candidates to campaign without interference.”

Anyone with information about damaged, vandalized or stolen election signs is asked to contact NBPS at 705-472-1234.