The vandalized signs were part of Encinitas' expanded traffic-calming campaign, launched in the wake of several high-profile crashes, including the April death of 12-year-old Emery Chalekian and the October crash that nearly killed a 9-year-old boy pinned beneath a truck that barreled into Gelato 101. The portable message boards had been deployed throughout major corridors to warn motorists to slow down, watch for pedestrians, and heed crosswalks. Instead, residents awoke to screenshots circulating through neighborhood group chats showing the boards flashing obscene phrases and graphic images.
City officials say the hack was not a digital breach but a physical one. Several of the units were reportedly opened manually, allowing the display panels to be reprogrammed. The control boxes on the signs were secured only by simple padlocks - an easy target that investigators believe vandals exploited. The San Diego County Sheriff's Office has been notified and is now reviewing the incidents for possible criminal charges. Under California law, tampering with traffic-control equipment can result in fines or jail time, especially when public safety is compromised.
The hacked messages pose a safety issue of their own. Instead of reminding drivers to slow down, the explicit displays risk pulling motorists' attention away from the road. Some residents reported seeing drivers slow abruptly or attempting to photograph the hacked screens, creating additional hazards in already congested areas.
City crews are now inspecting all remaining boards, upgrading locks, and evaluating stronger security features for the devices. Officials are also assessing whether the portable signs - already the subject of debate over their effectiveness - are creating more distraction than deterrence.
Investigators have not yet identified the individual or individuals responsible. Several signs were shut off entirely as a precaution while the city works to secure the devices and determine the full extent of the tampering.
Encinitas officials are urging anyone with information about the hacks to contact the San Diego County Sheriff's Office as the investigation continues and the city prepares to implement stronger safeguards to prevent another breach.
Originally published on November 20, 2025.
