DAVID RANUCCI | SUMMER KENT STATER

Credit: DKS Editors

Kevin Egler, 45, was issued a ticket for posting a sign similar to the one on the left in a public garden. This sign was one of approximately 450 signs that were placed around Ohio and its neighboring states by what Egler called, “a group of like-minded individuals.”

Police said he violated a city ordinance by advertising on public property. This charge, punishable by a fine of $125, was dismissed during a pretrial. The courts, however, may be charging him with littering, which can be punishable by up to $500 and 60 days in jail.

Egler said he sees other advertisements posted all over public property in Kent that go unpunished, including recruitment posters for the United States Army.

Egler said it was the message itself that authorities took issue with and that this is a First Amendment issue.

Contact photo stringer Dave Ranucci at [email protected].