CAMDEN – The Camden Police Department has been receiving increased reports of stolen campaign signs from private properties, according to Detective Sergeant Curt Andrick.

According to a post on the department’s Facebook page Sept. 4, the most recent theft occurred Sept. 3 at approximately 8:15 a.m. on a private property at the intersection of Hosmer Pond and Melvin Heights Roads. Two signs were stolen from the property.

“As with most of these type of thefts we are asking if anyone may have observed someone near the intersection of Hosmer Pond and Melvin Heights Roads during that time, whether parked or out walking around to report it, by calling the police non-emergency line at 236-3030,” Andrick said.

Andrick confirmed by telephone that police have also received reports of stolen advocacy signs from private properties.

He emphasized that it is important not to wait until the following day to report a theft and to call and report suspicious vehicles or persons when the activity is occurring, if possible, so an officer can be dispatched to the area to investigate.

The department will be issuing criminal summonses when a suspect is identified. According to Maine law, this type of theft is a Class E crime and carries a $500 fine.

“It is still a crime, no matter the value of the item, when someone is coming on personal property,” the detective said.

Sarah Shepherd can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com