JONESBORO – Union County Sheriff David Wilkins says he has received several reports of political signs being stolen in Union County.

The sheriff says to protect the right to free speech in Illinois, any person who removes or defaces lawfully placed political advertising, including yard signs, without authorization, is committing a misdemeanor.

Penalties include up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

The sheriff says if you want your opinion heard, then vote.