PHOENIX — A man was arrested last week for allegedly stealing two photo radar signs in Tempe, authorities said.
Sven Siverston, 55, is accused of taking the signs on Aug. 5 after his truck was flashed by a mobile speed camera on Scottsdale Road near Thomas Road, according to the Tempe Police Department.
Video surveillance shows Siverston returning the area around 30 minutes later, walking up to the photo radar sign, kicking sandbags off its base and then carrying the sign away.
“The ask is simple: Drive safely and obey the law,” Tempe Police Commander Kim Hale said in a press release. “If you get caught, accept the responsibility and pay the fine. Tampering with safety equipment puts lives at risk and will not be tolerated. It undermines public safety … (and) disrupts lawful operations.”
Suspect allegedly admitted to stealing photo radar signs
In a video police posted to Facebook, it was noted that Siverston put the sign in his vehicle and drove off.
He was arrested on Aug. 13. Police said he admitted to taking and throwing away two signs because he was upset that he was caught by the speed camera.
Siverston faces charges of obstructing government operations, interference with an official traffic control device and theft.
“He took what would be a civil traffic infraction and a small fine or traffic school and ended with three criminal charges and being booked into jail,” Sgt. Kurt Buczkowski of the Tempe Police Auto Crimes Unit said in the video.
Tempe rolled out red light and speeding cameras earlier this year. The city started issuing tickets for violations in early June.
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