In several parts of the City of Cranbrook, campaign signs for individuals running for seats on council or with the school board are being removed, defaced or otherwise vandalized and has caught the attention of the RCMP.

“We want to remind residents that it is a criminal code offence to remove or alter these official signs,” saids Corporal Pat Prefontaine of the Cranbrook RCMP detachment. “If you are caught removing or altering these election signs or posters, you may be charged with mischief, which could result in a fine or up to two years in jail.”  The charge of mischief is pursuant to Section 430 (4) of the Criminal Code.

“Election signage is a significant part of any candidates’ campaign,” said city communications officer Chris Zettel. “Not only is removing or destroying these signs against the law, these signs are expensive to make and to replace. The signs are around the community for a relatively short time, so I hope people will be respectful and simply leave them alone.”

If you witness acts of mischief or any other crime, you can call the Cranbrook RCMP detachment at 250-489-3471 or East Kootenay Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. You can also Google ‘Cranbrook Crimestoppers’ and leave a web tip.

The election is set for Saturday November 19, 2011. Polls are open on Saturday November 19 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for City of Cranbrook residents at the Laurie Middle School gymnasium on 2nd Street South.

Two more advance polls are set for Wednesday November 9 and Wednesday November 16, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Parkview Pavilion Senior Citizens’ Centre at 125 17th Avenue South.

For more information about the 2011 General Municipal Election in Cranbrook, please visit the City’s website – www.cranbrook.ca.

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