BELLE — A series of thefts and vandalism involving campaign signs in Maries County has led Sheriff Chris Heitman to remind those responsible that the political advertisements are considered free speech and removing them is a punishable offense.

“An individual caught stealing campaign signs can spend six months in the county in jail and is up to a $500 fine,” Heitman said. “Knowing our prosecutor Tony Skouby, I’m sure we can take these matters seriously.”

Maries County Chief Deputy Scott John said the sheriff’s office has taken reports that at least three signs from the Democrats and one from a Republican candidate have been vandalized or removed.

“Democrats had one spray painted on Highway 133 and two stolen off Highway 68,” Scott said. “All three (Democrat signs) were just Democratic platform support signs — not a specific candidate. The Republican campaign sign was only mentioned on social media and was a Bill Eigel sign.”

John said the four-by-eight banner sign stolen off of Highway 68 had a “Rosie the Ironworker” slogan. He reminds community members that the signs are protected by the First Amendment, which covers free speech. This is not the first time John has mentioned the signs are protected.

“Right around the time we started putting a bunch of signs out, Sheriff Heitman shared my campaign page comment about campaign signs,” he said.

At least one of the owners of the signs that were damaged or stolen has threatened legal action.