Respect Your Neighbor's Political Signs

The Ferguson Township Police Department has received several calls from resident's stating that their political yard signs have been stolen. The Police Department would like to remind our residents that stealing someone's yard sign is in fact a crime and you can be prosecuted for it.

"A person found to have stolen a political campaign sign or signs may be charged with a violation of Title 18, Section 3921, Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition, which is as follows:

§ 3921. Theft by unlawful taking or disposition.
(a) Movable property.–A person is guilty of theft if he unlawfully takes, or exercises unlawful control over, movable property of another with intent to deprive him thereof.
(b) Immovable property.–A person is guilty of theft if he unlawfully transfers, or exercises unlawful control over, immovable property of another or any interest therein with intent to benefit himself or another not entitled thereto.

According to Title 18, Section 3903, Grading of theft offenses, theft of property valued at less than $50 constitutes a misdemeanor of the third degree."

Violators can also be charged if trespassing for going on a neighbor's property to steal the sign.

Under the Ferguson Township's Sign & Billboard Ordinance, Political Signs are considered "personal expression signs" which are permitted in the Township and don’t require a sign permit. Residential lots may have up to three temporary signs in the yard.

If you are the victim of theft, you should contact Ferguson Township Police at 1-800-479-0050, by email police@twp.ferguson.pa.us or submit an anonymous tip.

While you don't have to agree with your neighbor's political opinion, you should respect their right to express it. We are all Ferguson Township residents and we must continue to work together to prosper as a community.