TxDOT reports sign thefts rising

Signs thefts are on the rise in Donley County, and that puts public safety at risk, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.

TxDOT Donley County Supervisor Brian Miller says they are seeing a rash of sign thefts across the county. The vandals are taking all forms of highway markers – stop signs, LED stop signs, deer crossing, FM roadways, and more.

At the intersection of FM 2471 and SH 273, local TxDOT employees have replaced a stop sign there at least three times in a year.

“When signs are stolen or vandalized, it can result in serious consequences for the traveling public,” said Childress District Engineer Darwin Lankford, P.E. “Traffic signs communicate important information to travelers.”

If someone isn’t familiar with an intersection and the stop sign is gone, the likelihood of a collision at the intersection increases.

Those responsible for the sign theft can be held liable if the collision results in injuries or fatalities. While some might see it as an opportunity to collect memorabilia for their room, garage, or dorm room, it is illegal, irresponsible, and a serious issue that puts lives at risk, TxDOT officials say.
Statewide, it costs Texas taxpayers millions of dollars to replace signs, including those damaged by gunshots.

Damaging, destroying, or stealing state property or state traffic control devices including road signs is a Class C misdemeanor if the damage is less than $100; a Class B misdemeanor if the damage is between $100 and $750; a Class A misdemeanor if the damage is between $750 and $2,500.

The Class A crime is punishable by up to $4,000 in fines and up to one year in jail. If the damage is between $2,500 and $20,000, the crime is a state jail felony and is punishable by up to $10,000 in fines and between 180 days and two years in state jail.

In Donley County, TxDOT employees are taking a new approach to helping deter the theft. Signs are now being engraved with the date of replacement and the location where the sign was installed. If signs are found in the possession of someone, that sign can now be identified.

Depending on the type of sign, replacement can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
If a driver notices a sign missing, they are encouraged to contact TxDOT so that sign can be replaced as soon as possible. When calling, give the county and location where the sign is missing. Drivers can make their report by calling Ginger Wilson, Public Information Officer at 940-937-7288.