Spike In Vandalism Targeting Election Signs In Bonney Lake

BONNEY LAKE, WA — The City of Bonney Lake is reminding residents that it is a crime to deface an election sign, after a string of vandalism in the area.

The city has not said if vandals are targeting any particular candidate's signage, only that it has now received multiple reports of signs being destroyed or otherwise altered. In response, local leaders are reminding residents that, under RCW 29A.84.040, defacing or removing political advertising is a misdemeanor crime. In Washington, misdemeanors are punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or up to a $1,000 fine.

The city is also asking residents to report sign thefts or vandalism by calling South Sound 911's non-emergency line at 253-287-4455.

Many political signs have sprouted up across downtown Bonney Lake as the city prepares for the November General Election. The election is a particularly important one for Bonney Lake, with a tight mayoral race between incumbent Mayor Neil Johnson, Jr. and challenger Michael C. McCullough, as well as races for Bonney Lake City Council positions 1, 3, 6, and 7. Plus, residents are being asked to weigh in on a levy lid lift, which would increase property taxes slightly to help finance East Pierce Fire & Rescue.

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