They called authorities after the councilman saw him pulling signs out of the ground and destroying them.
When /*San Bernardino County*/ sheriff's deputies showed up around 4:30 a.m., they discovered him hiding in some bushes.
Debenedet was arrested and booked for misdemeanor vandalism.
Investigators are continuing their probe and believe there may be enough offenses to bring felony charges.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
