Cleveland County Judge Don Triplet is asking for the public’s help in locating road signs that have been stolen from locations across the county.
Triplet said the county has spent approximately $2,500 replacing dozens of signs since he took office in February. According to the judge, several of the newly installed signs have also been stolen, creating additional costs for taxpayers and potential safety concerns for motorists.
The missing signs include both road name markers and stop signs. Triplet said he has been working with the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Department as authorities investigate the thefts.
Anyone with information about the missing signs is encouraged to contact the Cleveland County Judge’s Office at 870-325-6214.
In addition to creating expenses for local government, officials note that removing traffic control devices can pose significant safety risks. Under Arkansas law, unlawfully removing, altering or destroying an official highway traffic control device or road marker is a misdemeanor offense. Penalties can increase for repeat offenders and may include fines and jail time.
Individuals accused of stealing road signs may also face theft charges because the signs are public property. In cases involving critical safety devices such as stop signs or railroad crossing signs, penalties can be more severe.
Beyond criminal penalties, those convicted may be required to pay restitution to cover the cost of replacing and reinstalling the signs. Officials say replacement costs often include both materials and labor.
Triplet said county officials hope information from the public will help identify those responsible and prevent additional thefts from occurring.
