B.C. RCMP detachment warns of consequences of ‘interfering’ with elections signs

Campbell River Crime Stoppers shared these photos of election sign damage in a Facebook post.

An RCMP detachment on Vancouver Island has issued a reminder that vandalizing, stealing or otherwise “interfering” with election signs can have serious consequences.

Mounties in Campbell River say there have been three “official” reports of theft and damage but social media posts suggest the problem is more widespread.

Crime Stoppers Campbell River shared images of two signs along with its own warning on Facebook.

Spokesperson Const. Maury Tyre, in a news release, noted interfering with signs is a violation of the Elections Act and vandalizing or stealing signs runs afoul of the Criminal Code.

“Especially in an election, if you do not agree with a party’s platform, you have legal choices to express your feelings and opinions. The most important thing you can do is cast your vote,” Tyre said.

Consequences for an offense under the Elections Act range from fines to imprisonment. People found guilty of the offence of mischief to property worth less than $5,000 can face a maximum of two years in jail.

The detachment is encouraging anyone with information about election sign interference to call 250-286-6221 or make a report to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.