The Barry County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the first report of political yard signs being stolen during the lead up to the Nov. 6 election. Sheriff Dar Leaf said his office has just started an investigation into the charge. “These kinds of thefts are not uncommon,” he said.

Theft of political signs is a crime in all 50 states. In Michigan, the consequences of stealing or defacing signs can include a large fine or even jail time. Stealing or defacing signs is a misdemeanor that can carry a maximum penalty of a $500 fine or imprisonment of up to 90 days, according to state law.