Council hears report of vandalism and possible camera tampering at Hiawatha Park; photos to be circulated

Council Member Brengman reported multiple incidents of vandalism at Hiawatha Park during the Sept. 22 Mount Vernon City Council meeting and asked the public for assistance identifying suspects. Brengman described one incident involving juveniles who were “hurling things over the fence into the pool” and said the city is circulating photographs to identify them so juvenile court can be involved. He said the city wants to address the problem before it escalates. He also reported a separate incident involving an adult male who has attempted to manipulate security cameras and who the city believes may have entered the women's restroom. “We also believe that he may have entered the women's restroom over there,” Brengman said, and added officials believe the man may have been carrying a weapon. Brengman urged residents not to approach suspects and to provide information to law enforcement. “I'm not suggesting that you should go and, try and and speak with them or to, talk to them or to have any sort of contact with them. But if you know who they are, we would ask your help,” he said. Discussion vs. decision: council members received the report and asked staff to circulate photos and pursue identification; no formal council action or vote was recorded. Officials said photos were being prepared for the city website and that the police may seek juvenile-court intervention for minors identified. Clarifying details: incidents include juvenile vandalism (objects thrown into pool) and an adult suspected of manipulating cameras and possibly entering the women's restroom; officials believe the adult may have been carrying a weapon; the city is preparing and circulating photos to seek public help identifying suspects. What’s next: the city will circulate photographs and continue attempts to identify suspects, and authorities may pursue juvenile-court proceedings or other legal action as appropriate.