Increase in vandalism, criminal mischief noted at Kill Devil Hills park; assistance from public sought
Published 10:40 am Sunday, February 4, 2024
- Courtesy Town of Kill Devil Hills
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Assistance from the public is being requested in connection with recent incidents of vandalism and criminal mischief in Kill Devil Hills.
“Meekins Field Park has recently undergone major improvements and additions, which has made it a popular spot, for many people who come to enjoy its various recreational opportunities,” stated a news release from the Town of Kill Devil Hills. “Unfortunately, the park has also experienced an increase in criminal mischief and vandalism.”
In January, the park’s restroom facilities were targeted by various forms of vandalism, including a diaper changing table being broken from the wall, food and drink sprayed among the bathrooms, and toilets that were clogged with excessive amounts of toilet paper and other items. Additionally, the playground was “purposefully damaged by an individual recklessly operating a 3-wheeler through the areas of mulch and on the playground equipment itself. The juvenile operating the 3-wheeler was caught and has been banned from the park,” stated the release.
“Acts of mischief and vandalism such as these, diminish the enjoyment of the park for many other people, create a dangerous environment, and cost our taxpayers money for the repairs and labor,” the release continued.
The Town of Kill Devil Hills has increased its security measures at Meekins Field Park by placing additional cameras in the vicinity and by increasing the frequency of law enforcement and other staff patrolling the area. However, the Town of Kill Devil Hills, along with the Kill Devil Hills Police Department, is requesting the public’s assistance. Those with any information regarding these incidents are asked make a report with KDH Detective Drummond by contacting him at 252-449-5337 or ddrumm@kdhnc.com. “We need our citizens to report any acts of mischief that are witnessed at Meekins Field Park, or any other park, playground, or access, to the Dare Central non-emergency number at (252) 473-3444,” stated the release.
“Meekins Field Park is owned and maintained by the Town of Kill Devil Hills and the Town reserves the right to restrict access and/or close the park at any time if necessary. Although this is not an action we want to take, we take all acts of mischief and vandalism seriously,” the release continued. “The Town’s top priority is to ensure that all of our parks, playgrounds, and accesses remain safe and enjoyable for everyone who visits them.”
SUBSCRIBE TO THE COASTLAND TIMES TODAY!