SUMMIT COUNTY, Colo. – Authorities in Summit County are investigating references to Nazism after someone spray-painted a swastika and the letters “SS” on political signs outside Breckenridge.
The vandalism was first reported by a resident Sunday morning, after they had spotted that a campaign banner in support of Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons had been spray-painted with references to the totalitarian ideology in the Lakeview Meadows neighborhood off Highway 9, about six miles north of Breckenridge.
While investigating the vandalism, deputies also discovered that “1A for Summit” signs had also been vandalized, according to press release from the sheriff’s office. Ballot Initiative 1A seeks the approval of a temporary, ten-year mill levy on property taxes to fund wildfire mitigation and other infrastructure projects.
“From my law enforcement experience, the swastika symbol and “SS” are commonly known as symbols of hate,” said FitzSimons in a statement. “It is illegal to attempt to influence our community through hate and intimidation. I have directed Deputies to open an investigation and collect evidence.”
FitzSimons also said he has been in contact with both the District Attorney’s Office as well as the FBI to help in the investigation.
The sheriff asked that any resident that spots any other vandalized sign, or if they know someone who may have information about these crimes, to contact the Summit County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 668-8600.
The sheriff’s office is offering a $2,500 reward for any information that may lead to the arrest of the person or persons involved.
