A street artist was cited for violating Denver municipal code after police say he illegally posted signs with phrases like “Migrant hookers” and “Caution Undocumented Democrats” around the city in March.
The Denver Police Department is still investigating similar signs posted around the city on Aug. 29, which targeted Vice President Kamala Harris, included phrases like “Blacks must sit at the back of the bus. Kamala’s migrants sit in the front” and drew condemnation from state and local officials.
No one has been cited or arrested in that case, department officials said Tuesday.
Denver police cited 56-year-old Christopher Balli, also known as “Sabo,” on Thursday on suspicion of violating city code related to posting signs on public or private property. People cited under the statute are “liable for the cost of removal,” according to Denver city code.
The signs posted March 22 were found near West 12th Avenue and North Acoma Streets; West Colfax Avenue and North Broadway; and the 1400 block of Grant Street.
Denver Police Department’s Bias-Motivated Crime Unit also investigated the case, but the Denver District Attorney’s Office determined the case did not meet the criteria for a bias-motivated crime and the case was referred to the Denver City Attorney’s Office, according to the department.
Balli posted a copy of the citation on his Instagram on Thursday and previously shared photos of the street signs posted in March and August.
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