Political Campaign Signs Burned on St. Peters' Lawns

KSDK-- The St. Peters Police Department is investigating a rash of vandalism over the last several weeks targeting political campaign signs. In the most serious cases, the signs were actually burned on the homeowners' front lawns.

Several of the incidents happened this weekend. Victims like Kristie Smith, say it is both frightening and frustrating.

When she saw the empty frame on her lawn she says, "I just assumed it was stolen. And then my boyfriend discovered it had been burned."

All that was left of her Barack Obama sign was melted plastic and scorched grass. And she wasn't alone. In fact, the only other Obama sign on their street was also torched. It sat in front of John Cavanagh's house.

He says, "When someone starts burning a sign for a presidential candidate, that's sending a message out there."

In St. Peters, there have been six incidents this month where campaign signs have been stolen, damaged, or burned. Democratic signs appear to be the primary targets, according to police. However, some McCain signs were also vandalized in late September.

Jane Beck, a McCain supporter, lives in one of the targeted neighborhoods. She says, "Even though you agree or disagree that's not the right thing to do. That's just not America."

Matthew Harding, who also supports McCain, says, "Burning a sign, it's reckless. It's dangerous. It's ignorant."

St. Peters police are taking these incidents seriously. They're stepping up patrols in these neighborhoods, especially at night.

And the St. Charles County Democratic Party says that's all they can ask for. They're keeping their focus on the campaign.

Chairman Tommy Roberts says, "We're going to take the high road and let the police handle this situation."

In the meantime, residents say they won't be discouraged and their voices won't be silenced.

John Cavanagh says, "I cleaned up the mess, then went back up to the DNC and got me another Obama sign."

Burning those signs is a felony offense. If you have any information on this case, contact Crimestoppers at 866-371-TIPS.

jbcox2002 wrote:

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At least there were Obama signs in your state. I'm scared because there is probably one sign to 10 McCains in my town