Election signs have been popping up in and around Kimberley since the writ dropped in August. And as surely as every election campaign, whether municipal, provincial or federal, brings out the signs, they often bring vandalism to signs as well.
Kimberley RCMP are investigating the theft of several election signs in Kimberley.
Kimberley RCMP Cpl. Chris Newel reports that signs disappeared from around Kimberley and Marysville last week.
And it’s not just a prank — you could be charged.
“Police would like to remind persons that the removal of election signs is an offence and charges could be pursued,” Newel said.
Section 325 of the Canada Elections Act says that no one may interfere with the transmission of election advertising, such as an election sign. However there are a few exceptions. For instance, government agencies may remove signs that do not respect provincial or municipal laws, after informing the person who authorized the posting of the sign that they plan to remove it. Additionally, if the sign is a safety hazard, government agencies may remove it without informing the person who authorized the posting of the sign.
A property owner can refuse to have an election sign placed. If signs are placed on your property without your permission, the election act doesn’t prevent you from removing them. You can also contact the candidate or registered party and tell them you didn’t request the sign, and ask them to remove it.
In the case of the missing Kimberley signs, police believe the signs were appropriately placed and are currently investigating the theft. Should you have any information please contact the Kimberley RCMP, 250 427-4811.