IFN Staff

A Statesville woman faces two misdemeanor charges in connection with the theft of a campaign sign following an investigation by the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office.

Susan Lovejoy Alberto, 63, of Oakhurst Drive, Statesville, was arrested on Thursday and charged with removing a political sign that had been properly placed in a public right-of-way and misdemeanor larceny, according to Iredell County District Court records. She was released on a $1,000 bond.

Alberto is charged with stealing a sign belonging to Angela Matthews, a candidate in the recent Republican primary for Iredell County commissioner, on February 28.

Matthews provided a video of the sign being removed to the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, which opened an investigation into the incident.

Matthews said in a statement that she appreciated the Sheriff’s Office for its prompt and professional work.

“It is crucial that we all respect the democratic process, which includes following the law and not tampering with political materials, regardless of differing opinions,” she said. “I hope this serves as a reminder for everyone to act with respect and integrity throughout the election season.”

Matthews finished sixth in the GOP primary.