Britons face massive prison sentence for stealing traffic cones and road signs

Experts are warning people to avoid swiping a traffic cone or stealing a road sign. Even if it may seem harmless, it is a criminal offence and can see them jailed.

Traffic cones and road signs are two vital pieces of highway infrastructure which are required to be kept in place to help motorists on the road.

There have been many instances of drunk people stealing traffic cones or placing them on statues for comedic effect.

Similarly, road signs have occasionally been stolen as decorations, with people taking signs that bear a resemblance to their name or an iconic place.

However, they could find themselves falling foul of section 1 of the 1968 Theft Act, which punishes those who deprive others of their property.

While they may think they are not stealing from a person, these items will always belong to someone, usually the local council or construction company.

They could also be in breach of section 22A of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which makes it a criminal offence to interfere with traffic equipment where it could cause harm to others.

For the most serious offences, and where injury or death has occurred, a seven-year prison sentence can be applied.

Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, reiterated the warning to all people around the UK, particularly younger people.

He said: “So, whether it’s university students looking for a souvenir from their night out or other party-related high jinks, it’s wise to be aware of the potential repercussions of such thefts.

“Many local councils – particularly those with rude-sounding place names or streets made famous by movies and music – have taken extra measures to protect their street furniture.”

Earlier this year, two people in Barrow stood trial accused of stealing concrete-filled traffic cones, worth around £315.

Mr Conway added: “Besides the legal consequences, stealing road or traffic signs can have significant practical implications. 

“Removing or damaging road signs disrupts the flow of traffic and can potentially lead to congestion and delays for road users.”

Road signs are vital to the highway network, informing not only motorists but pedestrians too, and could place many people in danger if they are stolen.