One of the most-tense campaign seasons the nation has seen has gotten uglier in Mid-Michigan.
The Shiawassee County Sheriff Department is trying to find whoever destroyed dozens of campaign signs over the weekend. Around 50 signs on people's property were either vandalized or stolen in Bennington and Sciota Township.
It was Elaine Barta's first time putting a political sign outside her home. This Sunday, she noticed black spray paint covering the name of her choice for County Commissioner, Cindy Garber (R).
"I just don't know what they think they're doing by doing this," Barta said. "If you have differences you settle them in a different way. You don't settle them in a criminal way."
Barta's property was just one of many targeted. Around 50 signs belonging to Garber, her opponent Jeff Bartz and candidates for state senate were vandalized or stolen. Sheriff Brian BeGole said most of them belonged to Garber.
"Nobody has any business going into somebody's home on their property and taking it. That's not right. They're $40 a piece. I don't have a big budget. County Commissioner is not a full time position. It doesn't pay a whole lot so for me financially. It hurts," Garber said.
Sheriff BeGole said this type of crime is nothing unusual this time of year, and a candidate's party doesn't matter.
"Across the board, it's Democratic and Republican signs that get taken each election season," he said.
What motivated the criminal to do this is still a mystery. As for Barta, she said the criminal is the only one losing this race.
"We're going to put the sign back up and we're going to put more signs up so this is not going to deter me in any way," Barta said.
News Ten's Carla Bayron reach out to candidate Bartz Monday for comment, but she did not hear back from him.
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The people responsible could be charged with larceny and vandalism.
News 10 will keep you updated on the investigation.
