Chief’s Corner
By Chief Steven J. Wojnar Dudley Police Department Whenever elections take place, signs and other informational material can be found on lawns, utility poles, and a variety of other locations. Some people have experienced problems with signs being removed improperly. With the local elections taking place in a few weeks, I was asked to provide information on this subject. People lawfully exercising their right to vote must be as free from influence as possible. Voting must take place without intimidation or fear of retribution. When people post signs on their property, supporting a candidate or position, they assume control over them. Any removal or damage will fall under larceny or destruction of property statutes. These are determined on a case-by-case basis. The severity of the punishments will coincide directly to the amount or type of damage done. Threats of physical violence or damage to homes or buildings can carry more severe penalties. The goal is to avoid any of these unfortunate events. Obviously, the unauthorized removal or destruction of signs is not appropriate. Many homes and businesses now have camera systems which can assist in the identification of those responsible for these actions. We can criminally charge someone if they are identified engaging in these illegal activities. We certainly hope to avoid having to do that. Proper conduct on everyone’s part will result in a fair election process and limit problems. We must respect other points of view and proceed forward in an orderly and cooperative manner. Finally, please remove signs promptly after any election. These can be a hazard if left in place too long. Thanks in advance for your assistance with this matter. Another important reminder is the guidance for behavior on election day. Many regulations governing polling places are contained in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 54. Section 65 is entitled “Activities at polling places.” The law is rather comprehensive. It states in part, “no poster, card, handbill, placard, picture or circular intended to influence the action of the voter shall be posted, exhibited, circulated or distributed in the polling place, in the building where the polling place is located, on the walls thereof, on the premises on which the building stands, or within one hundred and fifty feet of the building entrance door to such polling place.” |
This can include shirts, stickers, buttons, signs, etc. Boundaries are established where these materials can be displayed lawfully on the day of elections. People should not bring or wear anything to the polling place that may fit into this category. Everyone’s cooperation is greatly appreciated.
As the pandemic continues, we are encouraged that the state is in the process of re-opening. Some mask requirements and other limitations will remain. We ask everyone to stay safe during this process and continue to take precautions to protect yourselves. Vaccination information can be found at www.dudleyma.gov or by calling 508-949-8036. This has been a challenging year plus for everyone. We, at the Dudley Police Department, greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community. Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, MA. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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