Swings vandalized at five Abbotsford parks, police warning parents
Posted July 24, 2020 3:09 pm.
ABBOTSFORD (NEWS 1130) — A series of severed swings at multiple Abbotsford parks has led to a warning from police, who are asking parents to watch where their children are playing.
A release from the Abbotsford Police Department says swings at five different local parks have been vandalized.
AbbyPD investigating vandalism to playgrounds & asking for the public’s assistance to identify suspects who have vandalized five local Abbotsford Playgrounds.
media release- https://t.co/D9a7VkXAS5 pic.twitter.com/Xa6LdbK4cj
— Abbotsford Police Department (@AbbyPoliceDept) July 24, 2020
Swings at Larch Park were cut May 19, but only partially, so police say someone could have been hurt. Something similar happened at Berry Park on June 8.
Almost a month later, police say someone climbed on top of the swings at Mill Lake Park and detached them, wrapped the chain around the top bar, then reattached the swing together. The swing chains were cut at the same park on July 10.
Robert Bateman Park was the scene of the next set of vandalized swings, according to police. Here, they say someone cut out a large portion of the toddler swing seat.
All damage was repaired and no one was hurt.
“Playgrounds are an important outdoor recreation amenity for our community, and they are regularly maintained by City staff to ensure their safety,” says Mayor Henry Braun in a release. “We ask residents to report any damage directly to the City as well as any information pertaining to vandalism to the Abbotsford Police.”
Police say those responsible for the damage could face charges of mischief.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Abbotsford Police Department at 604-859-525 or text 222973.
Damage to city property can also be reported through the @Abbotsford city services app or through the city’s “Request for Service” page.
