Campaign signs for San Dieguito Union High School District Trustee Michael Allman have been repeatedly stolen and vandalized over the past several weeks in the Rancho Santa Fe and Torrey Pines areas. The series of incidents, which has raised concerns among local supporters, has involved aggressive tactics, including one instance where a vandal was captured on video slashing a sign with a knife at 2 AM. In that footage, the individual can be seen hiding in nearby bushes as a car passes by before resuming the act of vandalism.
Another video caught a separate incident in which an individual brazenly picked up an Allman campaign sign and ran off with it. While it’s unclear whether the incidents involve the same person or different individuals, the footage of the second theft offers a clearer look at the face of the perpetrator, potentially aiding future identification efforts.
The motive behind the repeated vandalism is still unknown and there is no confirmation linking the actions to any political opponents. Allman is facing Kevin Sabillico in the San Dieguito Union High School District Trustee race.
“This kind of behavior, while unfortunate, is not entirely surprising given the misleading and harmful rhetoric that has been circulating,” a spokesperson for Allman said. “We call on all members of the community to respect each candidate’s right to share their message without resorting to underhanded tactics.”
Supporters of Allman’s campaign are hopeful that heightened awareness and vigilance will deter further vandalism. As tensions continue to rise in the lead-up to the election, Allman’s team has expressed confidence that the community will recognize these acts for what they are and will stand firm in support of a fair democratic process.
Allman’s campaign has urged any residents who observe suspicious activity to report it immediately.
