Campaign sign case against Bob Harshbarger dismissed

KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) — Accusations of theft and vandalism have been dismissed against Bob Harshbarger, the father of state senate candidate Bobby Harshbarger, after allegations that he pushed down and stole signs campaigning for State Senator Jon Lundberg ahead of the August primary election.

An order of dismissal with prejudice was granted on Wednesday.

Documents filed in Sullivan County General Sessions Court state there was insufficient evidence to support the conviction, resulting in the dismissal of the affidavit of complaint and criminal summons against Bob Harshbarger.

An affidavit previously sought charges of vandalism of $1,000 or less and theft of property of $1,000 or less against Bob Harshbarger.

The court order of dismissal states it was granted after a motion was filed and all parties involved consented.

In July, Lundberg swore an affidavit accusing Bob Harshbarger of pushing over a sign near a Dollar General. The affidavit also claimed a video showed “signs in the rear of his vehicle [that] clearly demonstrate theft.”

On Thursday, both Lundberg and Bobby Harshbarger’s campaign manager provided the following statements to News Channel 11 regarding the dismissal of the case:

“I believe the video provides clear evidence but understand why prosecutors did not want to take the case further.”

State Senator Jon Lundberg

“It’s alarming that Jon Lundberg would resort to tactics that echo the disturbing trend we see with Democrats like Joe Biden, who have been weaponizing the government and legal system against political opponents. This baseless accusation against Bobby Harshbarger’s father was nothing more than a desperate attempt to undermine our campaign. We are pleased that the charges were dismissed, which only confirms our faith in the legal system and our commitment to fighting for the values that matter to the people of Tennessee.”

Caleb Rose, campaign manager for Bobby Harshbarger

Bobby Harshbarger defeated incumbent Lundberg in the Republican primary in Tennessee Senate District 4 on Aug. 1. He will face independent candidate Dalia Price in November for the state senate seat.

News Channel 11 has reached out to Bobby Harshbarger’s campaign office, Lundberg and the district attorney general pro tem for the case for statements on the dismissal of the case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.