KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI) — With Election Day approaching, the Knox County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents that stealing, vandalizing, or destroying campaign signs is illegal and could result in criminal charges.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Detective Sammons and the Property Crimes Unit have received multiple reports of campaign signs being stolen or intentionally damaged across Knox County. Authorities say those incidents are currently under investigation.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that campaign signs are considered private property, regardless of the political candidate, party affiliation, or message displayed on the sign.
The Sheriff’s Office says individuals who remove, damage, deface, or destroy campaign signs without the owner’s permission may face criminal prosecution.
Officials are urging residents to respect the rights of property owners and political candidates as election season intensifies. The agency said maintaining a safe and orderly election process depends on community cooperation and respect for differing viewpoints.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity involving campaign signs or has information about recent thefts or vandalism cases is encouraged to contact the Knox County Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Unit.
The Sheriff’s Office says the reminder applies to all campaign materials throughout Knox County as voters prepare to head to the polls.
