(KNZA)--The Sheriff of Brown County, after receiving what he calls "several complaints about political signs being stolen," accompanied by the question, "is it illegal to steal such signs," gives a resounding "yes" to that question.

Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, says the crime falls under the theft statute; and, depending on the number of signs stolen, and the value of those signs, the theft could be classified as a felony.

Merchant, in the release, also makes clear that defacing political signs is also illegal, falling under the statute regarding criminal damage to property.

According to Merchant, several sign-theft victims have indicated they plan to press charges against suspects caught stealing such signage.