A contentious election is causing some voters to cross the line, according to law enforcement.

Some agencies are seeing a rise in complaints of stolen or vandalized political campaign signs.


What You Need To Know

  • Police say they've recieved an influx of complaints regarding stolen campaign signs 

  • Stealing signs off another's property is a crime

  • Charges begin with petty larceny for stolen signs

Theresa Naples, a 94-year-old lifelong Democrat, won't make you guess what she believes. She proudly showcases her support for Vice President Kamala Harris on her front lawn.

“I am showing what I feel is the right thing to do,” said Naples.

Similarly, longtime supporter of former President Donald Trump, Kerry Johnston, has made a bold statement with two large signs outside his home.

"Initially, we were a little bit apprehensive about putting up any signs at all,” said Johnston. “If you don’t voice your opinion, nobody has any idea how you think or feel.”

Each election year, when voters' views are on display, police say they see neighbors turning on each other, stealing and vandalizing political campaign signs.

"We actually anticipated having numerous calls coming in because of the contentious election," said Sheriff Craig Apple of the Albany County Sheriff’s Office.

While Albany County hasn't received many complaints this election season, the Fulton County Sheriff's Office has received 10.

"It's a certain percentage of jerks on both sides that think we've got to make it even with somebody. And then, I think besides the jerks, I think that it might be people who've got an ax to grind with their neighbor," said Sheriff Rich Giardino, of Fulton County.

Charges begin with petty larceny for stolen signs, and for theft over $1,000, that's a felony.

“It’s also a crime to trespass on somebody’s property,” said Apple.

Apple and Giardino both stressed the importance of respecting others’ rights and opinions.

On Wednesday, Frank Salamone, the Schenectady County Democratic Committee chair, released doorbell video that appears to show Republican Joe Mastroianni, a candidate for New York's 111th Assembly District, stealing his opponent's election mailer from a homeowner's porch.

Doorbell video released Wednesday appears to show the Republican candidate for New York's 111th Assembly District stealing his opponent's election mailer from a homeowner's porch.

Despite the potential for negative reactions, both Naples and Johnston have not faced backlash for their signs.

Naples knows she may not change minds with her sign.

"If they, they have their own views, that's their opinion," said Naples. "But, I want them to get out and vote. You just can't sit home. This is very important."

Johnston agrees on the importance of voting.

“At the end of the day, your opinions are valid and it’s important to put out there,” said Johnston.

David Behnke is taking a different approach.

With a "Dogs 2024: Because People Suck" sign on his lawn, Behnke is reminding his neighbors to take a moment to laugh during the heated election.

“Every once in a while, you just have to get a chuckle out of something,” said Behnke. "Then maybe go back to reading up on what you want to do."