Photo by Emily Chatwood / MBC News
The Ontario Provincial Police is warning residents that interfering with election signs could result in a criminal investigation.
The OPP East Region says damaging, removing, defacing or stealing election signs, or otherwise interfering with them, may constitute a criminal offence.
Police say acts of mischief and property damage can affect property owners, election candidates, campaign volunteers and the wider community.
Residents are being reminded to respect both public and private property during the election period.
The OPP is also asking anyone with information about damaged or vandalized election signs to contact police.
Residents who witness suspicious activity involving election signs are encouraged to report it to police.
Information can be provided to the OPP by calling 1-888-310-1122.
The warning comes as election signs begin appearing in communities across Eastern Ontario, with police reminding residents that political signs remain protected property and should not be interfered with.
