Candidate for Minnesota House Faces Charges Over Stolen Signs

A candidate for the Minnesota House of Representatives, Judd Hoff, and his wife, Wendy Hoff, are facing legal troubles after authorities discovered a collection of stolen signs in their Alexandria backyard. Hoff is campaigning for the House seat in District 12B, but the couple's alleged involvement in sign thefts has raised significant concerns. Reports of stolen signs, including political and real estate advertisements, began surfacing in early July, prompting an investigation by local authorities. The situation escalated when Wendy Hoff reportedly informed a Douglas County deputy about the theft of one of her husband's campaign signs. In a statement captured in a criminal complaint, she expressed frustration over the legality of placing signs near their property, suggesting that others could take them if they were in the right-of-way. Surveillance footage later linked Wendy's vehicle to a theft at a towing company, further implicating the couple in the ongoing sign thefts. Following a search of their home, both Hoffs were arrested during a traffic stop on Saturday. Judd Hoff had previously received an endorsement from the Douglas County DFL, which was rescinded shortly after the allegations surfaced. This incident follows earlier controversies, including accusations of stalking and harassment against incumbent Rep. Mary Franson, although no charges were filed in that case. Hoff also has a prior felony conviction for second-degree assault stemming from an incident involving a machete.