A. It is unlawful for the sponsor of an event or the owners or lessees of a place mentioned in advertising material or displays to himself post or distribute; or to permit; encourage or otherwise direct another person to post or distribute an advertisement or display in violation of this chapter; and such owners; sponsors or lessees shall have an affirmative duty to prevent such illegal posting or distribution by any person connected with such event or place.

B. Whenever a sponsor; owner or lessee is prosecuted for a violation pursuant to the provisions of this section; the court may; on the request of the sponsor; owner or lessee, take appropriate steps to make the person or persons responsible for the illegal posting or distribution or directing the same; a codefendant.

C. In the event such codefendant is held solely responsible and found guilty, the court may dismiss the charge against the sponsor; owner or lessee.