$500 Offered For Leads

On Town Hall Vandalism

By Kendra Bobowick

A prank with spray paint could be costly for the vandals who spread graffiti across the walls and stairwells of the Edmond Town Hall on July 20. Officials are hoping reward money will produce a lead. This week the building’s Board of Managers suggested a reward, and then quickly increased its size and appeal.

Sandy Motyka asked, “Do we want to post a reward?

“I definitely want to post a reward and prosecute,” Chairman Jay Gill said. “I think we should offer a substantial amount.”

“How about $300?” Ms Motyka suggested.

“I say $500,” Mr Gill said.

“Okay, $500,” Ms Motyka replied. Members unanimously supported the proposal.

The late July graffiti incident is the most recent in a problem that is ongoing. So far police investigations are open. Police Chief Michael Kehoe said August 22 that police have no suspects in the vandalism case but are actively investigating the matter.

Chief Kehoe said he hopes that the reward will prompt someone with knowledge of who committed the crime to contact police. He also noted that the vandalism occurred at the local seat of government and thus must be vigorously investigated.

The initial police report stated that at about 9:30 pm someone entered the building and found cans of white spray paint, which was used to deface the town hall’s interior. The paint was stored near a machine used to stripe asphalt. Damage consisted of various white lines, markings, words, and initials. Scrawled in paint were the words “Jim,” “Donna,” “Jim Loves Donna,” “AR,” and “DO.” Police gathered evidence from inside the building. Also according to police, the building was open and a movie was running when the incident took place. Following the vandalism, Mr Mahoney had said that “Jim” or “Donna” or a friend had spray painted the building. He also added that it was likely a disturbed adolescent who committed the crime. Police categorize the incident as first-degree criminal mischief, a felony in which the damage value exceeds $1,500.

This week, Ms Motyka asked, “Is there still a problem with kids being dropped off, but they are not attending a movie?”

Building Administrator Tom Mahoney said, “Yes.”

James Juliano suggested posting a “No Loitering” sign.

Members then questioned how “No Loitering” signs would work on a public building. Mr Mahoney said, “You’ll have to define loitering. Kids hanging out and talking is fine, it’s certain ones.” He does not sense problems with all the teens that meet at town hall.

“There is a core group,” he said. He has not seen those particular teens since July 20. “Since the vandalism, they have been scarce.”

In fact, as managers continued their Monday, August 20, meeting, a handful of teens was gathered on the front steps talking. Again, Mr Mahoney indicated that teens talking together were not a problem.

Building Superintendent Clark Kathan has been repainting the defaced areas following contracted cleanup work.

Police ask that anyone with information call 426-5841, or 270-8888. Contact the Board of Managers at 270-4285, or Mr Mahoney at 426-0048.

Reporter Andrew Gorosko contributed to this story.