Five held on suspicion of stealing "Yes" on…
Five held on suspicion of stealing "Yes" on Prop. 8 signs
By Barbara Giasone | Orange County Register
FULLERTON – Five people were arrested early today on suspicion of participating in a sign-stealing spree the suspects said originated in a downtown bar, Sgt. Mike MacDonald said.
A police officer patrolling the area near Chapman and Pomona avenues at 1:30 a.m. saw a passenger jump from a car and place a campaign sign on the corner.
When the officer approached the driver, she noticed three "No on Prop 8" signs in the vehicle. She also located 10 torn-up "Yes on 8" signs on the front floorboard with three McCain-Palin signs.
The "Yes on 8" signs were allegedly stolen and the "No on Prop 8" signs were not, police said.
When questioned, the suspects said they had just come from a "No on 8" rally at a downtown business and were angry, MacDonald said.
Based on their statements, all five were arrested on suspicion of possession of stolen property.
Taken to city jail were Jonathan Barrett, 19, of Fullerton; Jennifer Berry, 23, Covina; Emanuel Muro, 23, Artesia; Daniel Palacios, 23, Lakewood; and Eric Gutierrez, 23, Fullerton.
MacDonald said all five admitted taking the signs.
Barbara Giasone