By Annabeth Miller,
ShowMe Times Editor

Modern technology and solid work from area law enforcement has resulted in catching the culprits destroying property in Dexter’s East City Park.

Park Supt. Lawson Metcalf reported to the Dexter Board of Aldermen this week that thanks to the installation of surveillance cameras at East Park, a trio of juveniles were identified destroying property in the public restrooms at the park. 

“For a couple of weeks in January, we were having extensive vandalism in both of the rest rooms,” Metcalf said.  Vandals were tearing out the stainless steel stalls, which Metcalf reported were “pretty darn expensive.” It got to the point, he said, that the department made the decision to install surveillance cameras on the outside of the building.

On the first night after installation of the cameras, three juveniles were videoed lingering around the building. One was lingering on the outside of the structure while two were inside. 

Thanks to the video, and quick thinking of department member Rob Ward, the juveniles were identified and the information turned over to Dexter Police. The juveniles were apprehended and ultimately confessed to the vandalism.

The cost of the damage has been estimated at $2,200, and Metcalf reported surveillance cameras have now been installed at both East Park and West Park in the city.

“Vandalism is a thing in the parks,” Metcalf said. “We don’t have a lot compared to other towns. Sikeston has extensive vandalism issues over there on an on-going basis. We’re fortunate that we don’t. But it’s just a very small percentage of people who use the parks ever do any destruction.”

Alderman Kirby Taylor asked about the city curfew times. Police Chief Sammy Stone confirmed that curfew for young people 16 and younger is at 11 p.m. during the week and 12 midnight on weekends. Metcalf confirmed for the alderman that the vandalism caught on camera was before 11 p.m.

Upon the recommendation of Water and Wastewater Superintendent Tom Espy, the board unanimously approved the issuing of a plumber’s license to Steve Lunsford Plumbing.

During Aldermanic Forum, City Manager confirmed that surveying has been taking place in the Plaza Heights subdivision. He said before street work in the area can begin, the city must complete water line work in the subdivision.

Ordinances

• No. 4665 – disbursements for January 2012; unanimously approved

Board Approval

• Plumbing License to Steve Lunsford Plumbing; unanimously approved