County of park: Warren County
Location of park: S. end of Morgan St., Warrenton
Phone: 636-456-3535
Park Hours: Dawn to Dusk
"Vandalism can take a big bite out of a small-town city budget.
"Warrenton, Missouri has a problem, and the city says it is cracking down.
"Vandals as young as 8 years old are suspected of causing thousands of dollars in damage at city parks.
"So far, six young people have been turned over to juvenile authorities, and parents could be footing the bill for clean-up.
'“Their parents are then charged under our parental responsibility ordinance, which allows us to fine the parents and seek restitution of up to $2,000 per incident,” Police Chief Larry Ellard said.
"The city says vandals have damaged sinks, towel and soap dispensers, smeared feces on the walls of bathrooms and set fires.
'“It’s very upsetting for someone who appreciates the park and wildlife,” said Whitney Beumel, who walks in the Binkley Woods Park in Warrenton every day.
'“This summer, we’ve seen an uptick in vandalism in city-owned facilities,” Ellard said.
"Ellard said vandalism has been around for years, but he’s not sure what is leading to the uptick this summer.
"Lori Todd runs a preschool and daycare and frequents the park with her students. She reports any problems she sees.
'“I guess you could call me the park police,” Todd said.
"She said she would like to see the vandals assigned some community service.
'“I see nothing wrong with kids working,” Todd said. “If they dirty it, they should be responsible to clean it up.”
"A dollar amount for the vandalism wasn't available, but a city official says it's in the thousands of dollars and calls it "significant"." ~ KMOV, CBS channel 4 St. Louis, By Raeley Youngs, July 2, 2018