FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date:  October 21, 2018

Contact: Erin Opsahl

(970) 423-8901

Erin.Opsahl@SummitCountyCO.Gov

SHERIFF RESPONDS TO POLITICAL SIGN VANDALISM

    SUMMIT COUNTY, CO – The Summit County Sheriff’s Office was notified at approximately 8:20 a.m. on Sunday, October 21, 2018 by a concerned citizen via email of vandalism to “FitzSimons for Sheriff” political signs in the Lakeview Meadows neighborhood, along Highway 9 near Farmer’s Korner outside of Breckenridge. 

Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons stated, “From my law enforcement experience, the swastika symbol and “SS” are commonly known as symbols of hate. It is illegal to attempt to influence our community through hate and intimidation. I have directed Deputies to open an investigation and collect evidence. I take matters such as these seriously and will be working with District Attorney Bruce Brown to investigate anyone intimidating citizens who are exercising their rights of political expression and speech. These are violations of both state and federal laws. Therefore, I have also been in contact with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. My office will be fully cooperating with the District Attorney’s Office as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and will work closely with them to investigate and charge the persons found responsible for these acts.”

The Summit County Sheriff’s Office is offering a reward for any information leading to the arrest of the person or persons involved in the amount of $2,500. 

Through our investigation, it was discovered that “1A for Summit” political signs were also vandalized. If any other vandalized signs are discovered or if you or someone you know have any information regarding these crimes, you are encouraged to call the non-emergency phone number for Dispatch and request a Summit County Sheriff’s Office Deputy at 970-668-8600. 

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