The Office of the MD State Fire Marshal Bomb Squad investigating ‘suspicious’ devices found on the back of political signs throughout Talbot County

EASTON, Md. —  The Maryland State Fire Marshal Bomb Squad has been investigating suspicious devices attached to political campaign signs throughout Talbot County.

Authorities say the first event happened on October 4th around 9 a.m, when Easton police responded to Idlewild Park in the 100 block of Idlewild Road, for a report a suspicious device located on the back of a campaign sign. After observing the device, officers requested the Office of the State Fire Marshal Bomb Squad’s assistance. We’re told Bomb Technicians responded and determined the device was not harmful and it was removed.

Police say since that time, Bomb Technicians have responded to four more similar devices in and around Easton, and all were determined to be of similar construction. The devices are described as small audible alarms attached to the rear of the sign with a removable pull pin, which sounds an alarm once the pin is pulled.  Officials say it appears that the purpose of the devices was to stop the theft or removal of the sign. All the signs were located in public areas, which by Maryland law are not allowed. Campaign signs do not require a permit but are prohibited from being placed on public rights-of-way, road shoulders, or medians.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is asking residents if they see a similar type of device on a campaign sign, to contact their local police agency for further instructions. Officials say residents should never take it upon themselves to remove suspicious devices. They are reminding the public to practice the three R’s when a suspicious device is found. Recognize that any suspicious objects found should not be touched under any circumstances. Retreat or carefully leave the area, and report immediately what was found and the approximate location to a 911 dispatcher.