MARCO ISLAND, Fla. — Police are asking people on Marco Island to keep an eye out for any vandalism following months of damage at Veterans Community Park.
WATCH AS FOX 4'S ANVAR RUZIEV TAKES YOU TO THE VANDALIZED PARK.
The city says the damage varies from ripping sinks off restroom walls, dismantling water fountains, knocking down beach showers and pushing over cement trash cans. Most recently, there has been damage at the Maple Avenue beach access point and trash cans on Collier Boulevard.
All of this is taxpayer funded facilities and amenities, the city said.
The park went through recent renovations of its bathroom, playground equipment and bandshell.
"It takes some strength to damage these items, so there had to be some intent," said Captain David Ennis with the Marco Island Police Department. "We hope it's just mischievous behavior, but it has a significant impact on our community."
Tourists visiting the area have also expressed their concerns about the vandalism. "We don't like to hear that there's crime and vandalism going on in a place you want to visit. You want it to be nice when you come here," Zach Bridwell who was vacationing with family.
Police have increased patrols around the parks and beach access points. Captain Ennis explained that while social media posts can raise awareness, reporting directly to the police is crucial. "Our social media is not monitored 24/7, but we have officers working around the clock. If you call us immediately, we can respond and are more likely to catch someone in the act," he said.
"It is extremely unfortunate that someone is vandalizing our community’s park and beach facilities," the city said in a statement. "The repair and replacement of these items places an unnecessary financial burden on our residents."
If you see anyone committing this crime, you're asked to call Marco Island Police at 239-389-5050 or 911. They also ask that you take pictures or write down the description of the vandal, if possible.
Depending on the damage, a suspect can be charged with a felony.
