Rumney Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Removing Political Signs

October 9, 2025

By: Scanner Alerts Media Group

A Rumney man has pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawfully removing political signs, with the court imposing fines and penalty assessments totaling $992.

According to the release, James Martin, 64, of Rumney, pleaded guilty in Plymouth District Court to two counts of unlawfully removing political signs, contrary to RSA 664:17. Martin had removed signs from the side of Groton Hollow Road in Rumney prior to the November 5, 2024 State General Election. The Court imposed a $400 fine and a $96 penalty assessment on each count.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant Attorney General Brendan A. O’Donnell and investigated by Election Law Unit Investigator Cristina Ostrowski and the Rumney Police Department.

The Election Law Unit reminds the public that RSA 664:17 governs both placement and removal of political advertising. Only the property owner, an authorized person, or law enforcement may remove signs; on public property, maintenance or law enforcement personnel may remove improper advertising. Individuals who believe a sign has been unlawfully erected should contact the Election Law Unit or the property owner. Those who believe a sign has been unlawfully removed should contact the Election Law Unit or local law enforcement.

Credit: New Hampshire Department of Justice