Austin police officer Chris Irwin said whoever was responsible could be charged with theft and criminal mischief. Both are misdemeanors. The level of charge depends on how much manpower would be involved with switching the sign back, as well as the cost, Irwin said.

Bowie died Sunday after an 18-month battle with cancer just days after the release of his latest album, “Blackstar.”

The Austin Transportation Department released a statement saying the sign will be kept in place as a "makeshift memorial" until Tuesday.

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Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat gives a tour of Fulton County Jail in  2023. (Natrice Miller/AJC 2023)

Credit: Natrice Miller/AJC