(Submitted photo/RCMP SK Media)

By battlefordsNOW Staff

Sign stealer

Civic signs stolen in Paynton area

Mar 25, 2021 | 10:05 AM

Maidstone RCMP are investigating a series of thefts of civic signs in the Rural Municipality of Paynton No.470, which date back to last year.

According to Cst. Dennis Lee, the first reports of sign stealing came in December, when three civic signs were stolen. One suspect was visited, but police found no evidence the individual was involved in any crime. Three months later, further thefts were reported from the past few weeks.

“We just got a report from the RM of Paynton a couple of days ago that a couple of civic signs have been stolen and the crime has been continuing on since last year,” Lee said.

Over a dozen signs had been stolen so far. To steal the signs, the suspect(s) have been cutting off the post or unscrewing bolts.

At this point, Lee said they haven’t been able to find any leads or determine a specific motive. There was one incident earlier in 2020 where police caught an individual in the act of stealing signs, but that hasn’t resulted in anything since.

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“My [best] guess is [it’s] to take the signs to some remote area and use them for practice shooting,” Lee said. “Or it could be that some teenagers are stealing signs [for mischief].”

Maidstone RCMP are asking for public assistance as they continue the investigation, as the theft of the signs not only cost taxpayers, but create issues for the R.M.. Lee said they are hoping the public will help them find evidence to build upon.

“If the public can locate any of these civic signs when they are out and about, please call the RCMP,” he said.

Maidstone RCMP can be reached at 306-893-4800. For immediate response, residents can also contact 310-RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

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cjnbnews@jpbg.ca

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