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In Unicoi County, Tennessee, the Republican primary race for sheriff is heating up as both candidates have reported incidents of vandalism and theft involving their campaign signs, just days ahead of the primary election.
Frank Rogers and Bobby Rutherford, who are both vying for the sheriff’s position, have found themselves dealing with the unwelcome distraction of vandalized and missing campaign signs in their inaugural runs for the position. Each has expressed concern over these acts, which have added an unexpected challenge to their campaigns.
Frank Rogers, currently serving as the chief deputy at the Unicoi County Sheriff’s Office, recounted that a supporter discovered one of his signs defaced with vulgar and obscene drawings earlier this week. “Such acts of vandalism clearly constitute criminal behavior,” Rogers remarked, emphasizing his tough stance on crime. “Vandalism is a crime under state law, and those who engage in it are criminals. My commitment to being tough on crime will remain steadfast.”
In addition to vandalism, Rogers has also reported instances of his campaign signs being stolen. He has formally lodged a complaint with the Town of Unicoi Police Department, and an investigation into these unlawful activities is currently underway.
Rogers added he has experienced stolen campaign signs. Rogers filed a report with the Town of Unicoi Police Department on Wednesday morning, and an investigation into the vandalism is ongoing.
Competitor Bobby Rutherford, a current patrol lieutenant with the Erwin Police Department, said he has also experienced stolen campaign signs. Rutherford said the behavior is unacceptable.
“Vote who you want to vote for and hope for the best,” Rutherford said. “But vandalizing people’s property, whether it’s political signs or houses or whatever…I don’t think either side of this coin is going to condone that level of vindictiveness.”
Vandalism is considered a class A misdemeanor in Tennessee. If the property damage racks up, it can become a felony.
“There’s no reason why any candidate should have their campaign signs or any of their advertising tampered with or destroyed or stolen,” Rogers said. “It takes a lot of money for a campaign to purchase and effort to go erect these signs and put them up; time and manpower and it’s a criminal act. We don’t condone it. Not just because it’s my sign. But for any candidate.”
Rutherford said that if community members want to have their voices heard, they should vote.
“Tempers flare on both sides of this campaign,” Rutherford said. “Vote for your candidate. That’s your best way. That’s your best way to feel better. Whether it’s for me or for my opponent. Vote.”
Early voting started on April 15 and ends on April 30. The primary is set for May 5 and the general election for August 6.