'Welcome to Oxford' Sign Stolen

Either thieves don't want people to feel welcomed when they enter Oxford or they are playing a foolish prank.

Local officials believe the latter is the reason someone stole a "Welcome to Oxford" sign on Route 42 near the corner of Chestnut Tree Hill Road and Pines Bridge Road.

"This is something that is a source of pride for the people in Oxford, and it's a shame someone had to do this," said First Selectman Mary Ann Drayton-Rogers. "It serves no purpose in someone's home but is great for Oxford. We just want it back."

The sign, which was secured through a grant by Grants Coordinator Kathleen O'Neill, was part of a project spearheaded by Drayton-Rogers and her administration in 2009. The green wooden signs with gold lettering that says "Welcome to Oxford" are located at various entrances to the community, including on Route 67 near the Great Hill Plaza and at Route 34 near the Stevenson Dam. 

The sign that was stolen is smaller than the others but still means a great deal to the community, Drayton-Rogers said.

She said Department of Public Works crews and the Oxford Resident Trooper's Office have been made aware of the situation. Police are investigating, and Drayton-Rogers said she hopes someone will see it on the side of a road, in a wooded area or that someone will return it.

Oxford Resident Trooper Sgt. Dan Semosky said the sign is worth about $650.

"They are nice, classy signs and it's a shame," he said. "We're hoping to get it back soon."

He urges anyone with information to call police at 203.888.4353. All tips will be kept confidential.