Ontario Provincial Police briefs

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Damaged stop sign in Norwich Township sparks safety warning from OPP

Oxford OPP are investigating after a stop sign was found damaged and partially blocking a live lane in Norwich Township early Saturday morning.

Police were called just before 5 a.m. to the intersection of Norwich Road and Oxford Road 13, after a member of the public spotted the sign and immediately reported it.

“It is unclear if the sign was removed due to a collision or due to mischief,” said Constable Randi Crawford. “The removal or damage to a stop sign must be reported immediately to reduce the risk of serious harm or death.”

Police are reminding drivers that collisions involving damage to private, municipal, or highway property must be reported.

“I would also like to remind people that removing a stop sign is no joke,” Crawford added. “In severe cases, if removal of a stop sign causes serious injury or death, an individual can face serious criminal charges.”

Anyone with information or video surveillance from the area is asked to contact Oxford OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or ontariocrimestoppers.ca