Sign vandals strike again

Photo: Kevin Rothwell

Ongoing sign vandalism in the Okanagan-Shuswap riding has Conservative candidate Mel Arnold's campaign manager alarmed. 

“I’ve run a lot of political campaigns, and this is the worst I have ever seen,” said Linda Hawes. “Oh my gosh, it’s not stop.”

Signs have been sliced into pieces, the candidate’s name has been cut out, inappropriate language and graffiti have been sprayed on signs, and a large one near the Armstrong Tim Hortons has been repeatedly run over by a vehicle. 

“There is a certain element out there, and it kind of goes hand in hand with what’s happening at forums, with booing and catcalling to the point candidates can’t address questions,” said Hawes.

“This isn’t democracy. If you want change, then make your mark on your ballot.”

Parties in some ridings are actually working together to try curb the vandalism by watching out for competing candidates' signs.

Hawes adds the vandalism has cost Arnold's campaign more than $3,300 already, along with countless hours of volunteer time. 

Some vandals in other ridings have suggested damaging signs is freedom of speech – but police say it is a crime.

RCMP do have recourse if they catch someone in the act.

Under section 325(1) of the Canada Elections Act, “No person shall prevent or otherwise impair the transmission to the public of an election advertising message.” This includes election signs as outlined in section 495(1) of the Canada Elections Act. 

Punishment for removing or defacing election signs that are lawfully placed can include a fine of up to $5,000 and up to six months in jail.