This Couple HATES Yard Signs! Minnesota House Candidate and Wife BUSTED in Bizarre Heist!
A Minnesota House candidate is embroiled in a jaw-dropping scandal after being caught red-handed with over 240 stolen yard signs! đ #News #AlexandriaMN #Minnesota #Crime
ALEXANDRIA, MN â A Minnesota House candidate has been implicated in a alleged series of thefts involving more than 240 yard signs across Alexandria, Minnesota, according to local police.
Charges and Legal Consequences
Judd Hoff, 53, was charged on Friday with aiding and abetting felony theft and receiving stolen property, both of which are felonies. His wife, Wendy Hoff, 50, also faces a felony theft charge. If convicted, the couple could each face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Judd Hoff, who is running as a Democrat, was disavowed by the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party in April after receiving an endorsement from a local party unit.
His legal troubles extend beyond the recent theft charges; he has a previous conviction for second-degree assault involving a machete in 2020. Hoff served eight months of a 13-month sentence for that crime. Additionally, earlier this year, he was accused of stalking his Republican opponent.
The Sign Theft Investigation
The investigation into the stolen signs began in July when Alexandria Police received multiple reports of missing yard signs from various locations across the city. Among the stolen signs were those promoting local events like a craft fair and realty signs from REMAX. The thefts also included “No Parking” signs and campaign signs.
On July 26, Wendy Hoff was reportedly seen stopping at several homes on East Golf Course Road and removing “Josh Owen” signs. These signs had been placed in memory of Pope County Sheriffâs Deputy Josh Owen, who had recently passed away.
An off-duty police officer observed Wendy Hoff taking the signs and followed her back to her residence, which led to further investigation.
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Interaction with Law Enforcement
The criminal complaint details a conversation between Wendy Hoff and a Douglas County deputy that took place on July 10. During this exchange, Wendy reportedly expressed frustration over one of her husbandâs campaign signs being removed by law enforcement.
Body camera footage recorded her explaining the rules about signs placed in public right-of-ways, stating that anyone could legally remove such signs.
Search Warrant and Evidence
A search warrant was executed at the Hoff residence on August 7, leading to the discovery of a large collection of signs. Among the signs found were:
- Art in the Park signs
- Campaign signs for Donald Trump, Michelle Fischbach, and Steve Boyd
- Interlachen Bazaar signs
- Josh Owen memorial sign
- Realty signs
The total value of the stolen signs is estimated to be around $5,000, according to the authorities.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Both Judd and Wendy Hoff are currently facing felony charges, with legal proceedings expected to unfold in the coming weeks.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for Judd Hoff’s political ambitions and further tarnish his public image.
Reminder: All parties are considered innocent before proven guilty. Photo courtesy: Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
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