The ongoing court case against Joseph "Jody" Harris Sr., charged with vandalizing political signs in Summerville and North Charleston earlier this year, has been rescheduled. Initially set for this month, the trial will now be heard on October 1, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the Summerville Municipal Court. Harris faces 22 charges of vandalizing or removing political campaign signs, with the case number 2024A1820500529. Each individual charge is a misdemeanor charge that carries a fine of up to $1,000 or 30 days in jail.
Background on the Incident
Between April 18-24, 2024, more than a dozen 4-by-4-foot political signs promoting the May 14 school infrastructure bond referendum were defaced with the words "No to taxes" sprayed in black paint. These signs, funded by a local citizens group, were crucial in advocating for the referendum, which aimed to extend bonds from a previous 2012 school infrastructure referendum to fund new elementary schools and safety upgrades without raising taxes.
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Summerville Police Department and the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office, Harris was identified as the individual responsible for the vandalism. He was subsequently charged with 22 counts of vandalizing or removing political campaign signs by the Summerville Police Department, with additional charges brought by the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office.
Referendum Success Despite Vandalism
Despite Harris' attempts to undermine the campaign, the May 14 referendum passed overwhelmingly. The community came together to support the initiative, with 4,101 voters casting "yes" votes, compared to 1,244 "no" votes. This decisive victory ensured the continuation of crucial infrastructure projects that will address overcrowded schools and enhance safety measures across Dorchester District Two.
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