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Last updated on Sunday, February 25, 2018
(BARTHOLOMEW CO.) - More than a dozen street signs were vandalized with offensive language and hateful words overnight in Bartholomew County.
Investigators are now asking for the public's help catching the suspect responsible for the crime.
Around 12:30 a.m. Friday morning, deputies were called to the 8000 block of 550 W on a report of a speed limit sign with vandalism. They arrived and found 14 road signs covered with black paint.
The graffiti included offensive symbols like Nazi Swastikas and the letters WP for white power, as well as profanity and genitals.
The Bartholomew County Sheriff's Department says a dark-colored truck was reported dropping off someone in the area and later, a white truck picked the same person up and drove away.
The roads in the area where the signs were damaged just west of Columbus are not heavily traveled, but investigators say the spray paint is a public safety concern.
"This isn't just a matter of the cost to taxpayers for the county to replace these signs, this is also a public safety issue and I urge anyone with any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, to please call us. This is very concerning because when motorists can't read these signs, it definitely creates opportunities for very serious accidents," said Sheriff Matthew Myers.
Anyone with information is asked to call the sheriff's office at 812-379-1650, the tip line at 812-379-1712 or contact the department via email at sheriff@bartholomew.in.gov. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
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