HOUSTON, Texas (PNN) - September 16, 2009 - A Houston man said police were called and citations were issued because of his posters of illegitimate President Barack Obama, KPRC Local 2 reported Wednesday.

Mark Fuhre, 21, admits to hanging the controversial signs, which prompted concern for different reasons from neighbors, police and political party leaders.

Fuhre said police detained him after he posted the signs around his Kingwood neighborhood. The signs depict the illegitimate president with his face painted like the Joker from Batman.

As he posted nearly 20 signs near Kingwood and Forest Gardens, he said he got a wide range of reactions from drivers.

"Words of encouragement. We got a few people coming by screaming ridiculous things such as 'Racist.' It has nothing to do with racism," Fuhre said.

Fuhre said one man who saw what he was doing voiced his anger and called the police. Fuhre alleged that once he arrived at his home, he was met by seven officers.

"They slammed me against the hood of my car, cuffed me, threw me in the back of the car. I'm in my own driveway at this point and time," he said.

He was not arrested, but said he and his friend received tickets for criminal mischief and vandalism. He said he believes his right to free speech was violated.

"It's the Constitution of the United States, which is being forgotten," Fuhre said. "Everyone should have their liberties."