Campaign signs being stolen in Ohio; County Democratic Party members taking action

BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio (WTRF) — Sign stealing is becoming a problem in Belmont County.

Campaign signs are being stolen from people’s lawns and public intersections, often just hours after they were put up.

County Democratic Party members say people come to their campaign headquarters in St. Clairsville to pick up signs for their yard, and soon they’re back because the signs were stolen.

They say it’s happening all over the county.

My message to the public is leave our signs alone, OK? We’re getting tired of people having to come in and call us and say we have signs, we’re afraid to put ’em up, somebody’s gonna do damage to our property.”

Frank Papini, Chair, Democratic Executive Committee, Belmont County

But in Belmont County, mainly, our cameras are out. When we catch you stealing signs, we will prosecute, we will do it to the fullest. And if you take my word, we will see to it that you get some free meals for a few days.”

Phil Wallace, Chair, Belmont County Democratic Party

One person brought them some trail camera video today, showing their signs being stolen.

That video has been given to the prosecutor.

Their message to the public is to vote for your favorite candidates and issues, but don’t steal the other party’s signs.

They’ve already filed reports with the Bridgeport and Martins Ferry police departments and the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office.

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