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ST. GEORGE — A string of incidents reported over the recent holiday break have left several parks across St. George with thousands in damages and costly repairs.
The St. George Police Department has seen a recent surge in the number of vandalism calls at city parks throughout St. George, including five separate incidents reported during the festive season.
St. George police officer Tiffany Mitchell said the spike coincides with the recent Christmas break, leading authorities to suspect that juveniles may be involved, since a the school recess means more free time without their daily routine of classrooms and homework.
Boredom can also lead to child mischief, police noted. A vacant park restroom can provide the opportune moment to engage in nefarious activities, including graffiti and vandalism, which is not just a nuisance; it is also costly.
Shane Moore, St. George Parks and Community Services director, said the recent incidents alone resulted in several thousands of dollars in damages, including the $2,500 in damage to the restroom at the Fields in Little Valley.
The vandals also shattered several windows, smashed sinks, urinals and toilets and stall doors ripped from their hinges, Moore said, as well as other damage resulting in costly repairs.
The city must bear those costs, which are ultimately borne by the taxpayer, Mitchell said.
"Which is every one of us that are paying for all of this," she added.
