Irmo Town Council candidate Gabriel Penfield had campaign signs stolen from yards and businesses last week. A total of 38 signs were reported missing.
Local law enforcement has been notified about the incidents, and an investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the thefts. An Irmo Police Department spokesperson stated that stealing campaign signs is not only a violation of property rights but also undermines the democratic process. The theft of campaign signs is not only a setback for Gabriel Penfield but also a violation of state laws, specifically Section 7-25-210 of the S.C. Code. Section 7-25-210(A) states that it is unlawful to deface, vandalize, tamper with, or remove a lawfully placed political campaign sign prior to the election without the permission of the candidate or party. Section 7-25-210(D) outlines the legal consequences for violating the provisions of subsection (A). A person found guilty of such violations is deemed to have committed a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than one hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.
Campaign teams for Gabriel Penfield expressed their disappointment and frustration at the incident saying that the stolen signs not only represent a financial loss for the campaign but also pose a challenge to Penfield’s visibility in the crucial days leading up to the election.
“Signs I placed at businesses around town went missing,” said Penfield. “Even after replacing them, they came up missing again,” Penfield said the thieves targeted his signs along roadways and even in resident’s front yards in neighborhoods.
Gabriel Penfield is more determined to continue the campaign despite the stolen signs saying that it’s more an annoyance than anything else.
Anyone with information leading to the identity of the individuals responsible is encouraged to reach out to Irmo Police Investigator, Ken Neivel at knievel@townofirmo. Your cooperation could play a crucial role in resolving this matter and upholding the principles of a fair electoral process.
