Police Commish: Youth-Related Criminal Activity on the Rise

Light fixtures and lawn ornaments were found damaged at four Locust Street residences June 18. A lamp post on the property of a Fifth Street residence was found damaged June 11. Graffiti was discovered on fences on the property of two residences on Old Country Road June 10. A large piece of cement was thrown at a vehicle parked on Poplar Street that same day, causing damage to the rear windshield and trunk.

This is just some of the youth-related criminal activity Garden City police have reported since June 2. Commissioner Kenneth Jackson said the incidents have had a negative impact on the community.

"There seems to be a lot of damage to residential properties, mainly light posts and lamp posts. We also had some damage on park property," he said. "It's serious. It's inconveniencing your neighbors and on a personal note, it could hurt you in the future because we're going to make an arrest if we find the person or persons doing it. That could hurt you in the future getting a job or getting into college or getting a scholarship. I'm asking parents again to know where their children are and to explain the value of their neighbors' property and their rights."

Mayor John Watras made mention of the increased activity in a recent Mayor's Message. "Parents are urged to speak with their children and stress the importance of making smart decisions, refraining from destructive behavior and respecting others who live in their community," he said.

"This is particularly true concerning alcohol use. Parents should be aware of the activities their children are involved in, as well as their whereabouts, especially during evening and overnight hours. Alcohol use poses a serious threat to children, as well as the community; it often leads to irrational behavior such as property destruction, or driving under the influence."