Are “Branford’s Corrupt” Signs Freedom Of Speech - or Litter?

BRANFORD, CT - A lively debate has surfaced on social media over whether the proliferation of anti-Branford officials signs all over Town is exercising freedom of speech or simply a case of litter.

The debate is between Wayne Cooke, who is behind the planting of signs in Branford, and those who criticize his tactics.

Cooke is upset because he, and his family own land that they had hoped to sell to Costco years ago so the conglomerate could build one of their mega-stores in Branford.

But the plan has never come to fruition and Cooke blames what he terms “corrupt” Branford officials. Cooke has sued the town, set up a website where he rails against them, and placed signs around town about the failed project.

Some of those signs, he claims, have been ordered removed by Branford officials including First Selectman Jame Cosgrove - one of Cooke’s main combatants.

Now the fight over the signs is all over social media.

Here is what Cooke says:

“A WORD ABOUT THE SIGNS...Contrary to the claims of those critical of our "Town Hall Corrupt" signs, the signs are not "littering" the town or placed "everywhere.”

“We focus primarily on intersections and vacant parcels along Route 1 and stay away from neighborhoods, private property, the center of Town, and special events.

“During the Special Olympics Torch Run, the Branford Festival, the Road Race, and 375th events, for example, the signs were nowhere around. If someone asks us to move a sign away from their property we do so.

“Simply put, the signs are there as a reminder that certain public officials in Town Hall committed fraud and covered it up and need to be held accountable. If that doesn't bother someone more than where a bunch of signs are displayed, then a serious reevaluation of priorities is in order.”

But, not everyone agrees.

One person posted on social media: “You are littering Branford and I am removing the signs...stop destroying it with this crap. Or better yet, move if you hate it so much.”

Others have posted their support - both for Cooke’s position and those who don’t like the signs.

Cooke has said that he has asked police to look into the removal of signs.