NEENAH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Vandalism has been a growing problem for Neenah’s parks.
“Damage to picnic tables — we’ve also had damages to items within the restrooms, soap dispensers, paper towel holders, we’ve had toilets damaged — things of that sort,” said Joe Benoit, Neenah Police Department community policing officer.
Neenah police learned of the damage on Monday. Benoit said his department is taking action.
“Our officers are aware of it and certainly patrolling the parks as much as we can in between other calls,” he said.
The city’s parks and recreation department even took to social media to warn the community.
“It kind of sucks a little bit. I mean, I haven’t seen much vandalism here,” said Neenah resident Chris Franco. “It’s bad it’s happened at the other ones. It’s not safe for kids if stuff’s getting broken or vandalized. Kids don’t need to deal with that stuff because other people want to destroy things.”
Franco takes his two kids to Fritse Park frequently, and it’s something his entire family loves doing.
“I sit in the swing and get to hang out and watch them and let them burn off some energy while dad gets to relax a little bit,” Franco said.
He said it’s frustrating that a small group of people are ruining the fun for everyone else.
“If they’re vandalizing the parks, they should probably stop,” Franco said. “Make it safe for our kids. Vandalize something at your own house; don’t destroy public property.”
Franco believes the increased police presence will make a difference. But police are also relying on help from the public.
“If they see people in park that look like they’re up to no good, that look like they’re damaging something, causing a problem — whether it just be something they think is minor — we want to know about it,” Benoit said.
Benoit said if anyone is caught, they will be held responsible.
“Could be an arrest for criminal damage. It could be a referral to juvenile court. It could be a municipal citation, which would be like a ticket,” he said. “It all depends on the circumstances.”
Neenah police will also increase the frequency of officers biking and walking near parks as the temperature outside gets warmer.
The park that has seen the most damage is Memorial Park, which is located next to the high school.
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