Billboard in Albert Lea sparks controversy - KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and Sports

Billboard in Albert Lea sparks controversy

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ALBERT LEA, Minn. (KTTC) -- There's controversy over a billboard in Albert Lea.

Some local residents say the electronic sign implies illegal immigration.

At one point the sign read "Catch and release no, deport illegals si." But now it says "Check dictionary illegal is criminal."

The sign is located on West Front St. and Pearl St. and is owned by the company DIMA Corporation.

Those who participated in the protest say they disagree with the message it sends.

"We are here today to exercise our right to free speech just like he has exercised his. However we don't come with a message of hate, but with a message of love and tolerance," protest organizer Jeffrey Jurwicz said.

"It's just not fair, we're all one people and there's just no need for this kind of intolerance," Albert Lea resident Thomas Martinez said.

The Albert Lea tribune did try to reach out to the sign's owner for comment, but an employee at Dima Corp said he was out of town.

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