Ontario Provincial Police have sounded the alarm after vandalism was reported at more public park washrooms.
Just days after the Town of Tecumseh restricted access to its public toilets due to vandalism, the OPP has confirmed more incidents across the five Windsor-Essex municipalities it polices.
OPP Constable Steven Duguay said the problem has been ongoing for some time.
"Damage has been reported over the past year in Lakeshore, Leamington, Tecumseh, Essex and Kingsville," said Duguay. "The destruction that is being caused across these facilities restricts the access to members of the public, creating a dangerous situation, and costing taxpayers for the repairs. No area has been immune to these senseless acts of vandalism."
For example, washrooms at four Tecumseh parks were struck last week. Vandals damaged property in Weston Park, Optimist Park, Lakewood Park, and McAuliffe Park, angering Mayor Gary McNamara.
"They have disrespected our beautiful parks, our residents, and taxpayer dollars," said McNamara last week. "If the damage continues, we have no choice but to close all the washrooms down for the remainder of the fall season. The senseless vandalism has reduced access to the beautiful facilities that many people in our community use every day."
The OPP has asked anyone with information or security camera footage to call them at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips may be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
