Oakland County Sheriff Investigating Playground Vandalism

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — The Oakland County Sheriff's Office is investigating after the newly constructed Scarlet's Playground in Oakland County's Commerce Township was vandalized.

According to the sheriff's office, a person using bolt cutters vandalized the playground between 4 p.m. Monday and 9 am. Tuesday. Photos of the vandalism can be seen on the sheriff's office Facebook page.

Police said that when the foreman for the construction project arrived at the location on Tuesday morning, they noticed the temporary chain link fence was shut, but the zip tie holding it had been cut-off.

Metal clamps had been cut, which had held up a display sign with sign language for children, police said. Two other metal links were cut, which connected a ladder to the structure, police said. There were attempts to cut through a railing connecting a ramp to the playground, police said.

The bolt cutters may have been left behind by a construction crew member, according to police.

“I find it reprehensible any individual would destroy Scarlet’s Playground which was specifically built to allow children regardless of their challenges to have the ability to play,” Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said. “I encourage anyone with information on this incident to speak-up so we can hold the person accountable for their cruel actions.”

Anyone with information regarding the vandalism is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) SPEAK-UP. There is a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and callers will remain anonymous, the sheriff said.

Scarlet’s Playground is funded through the nonprofit organization called Scarlet's Smile, named after a 6-year-old girl from Commerce Township who is fighting a battle with spinal muscular atrophy.

When completed, Scarlet’s Playground will be an 18,000 square foot barrier-free playground which will be inclusive for all children regardless of their abilities.