Rossville declares war on vandals

A battle is brewing in Rossville.

City officials have declared all-out war against vandals who have invaded the city’s recreation park.

“I hate to prosecute young people, but if they have no respect for little kids, I will,” said Mayor Johnny Baker. Vandals destroyed three of the four signs that note a playground at the park is for children 12 and under.

The park was built by 1,000 volunteers in 1999 as a labor of love and letting someone tear it up is unacceptable, he said.

Obscenities and graffiti have been painted on buildings and equipment, signs have been damaged or defaced and a concession stand was broken into.

The mayor said parents and grandparents have been calling City Hall to say they are embarrassed and feel threatened when taking small children to the park.

“Do the parents of the teens that are doing this know where their kids are? Do they even care?” Mr. Baker asked.

Police Chief Sid Adams said some parents could be ordered to appear before a judge if their child is involved.

“If anyone 16 or under is charged as a juvenile, their parent, or parents, will be required to appear along with their child in court,” the chief said. “Any restitution that is ordered by the court can be the parents’ responsibility.”

Meanwhile, infrared surveillance cameras are being installed and police patrols are being increased in and around the park.

Mr. Baker said the city may hire people part time, deputize them and have them work undercover.

“We might have to form a vigilante group to control these people that are trying to destroy Rossville,” he said. “My advice is for trouble makers to steer clear of Rossville. We are going to do whatever it takes to clean that trash out of the park.”