Accounts of vandalism often break into the news when these property crimes inflict damage to public facilities or when they involve a high degree of visibility. The reasons behind the crimes sometimes remain unknown indefinitely.
Two recent vandalism incidents in Colorado involved public spaces, with one causing major damages.
Vandalism to the State Capitol
The Denver Post reported that state officials were unsure of how and when to begin the cleanup on the State Capitol, especially in light of recurring acts of vandalism and graffiti. The initial acts of vandalism began in late May of 2020. Much of the graffiti on public property came as a result of protests related to police violence throughout the U.S. Protesters also toppled a Civil War statue in the area, set a fire in the public square and damaged a flag pole. Police apprehended three individuals.
An increased police presence failed to stop subsequent vandalism, though it did result in a decrease in property crimes. Authorities said the vandalism reached an unprecedented level. A Denver City spokesman stated that the vandalism in the Civic Center area amounted to more than $1 million in damages, and that repairs would begin soon. Spray painted messages on porous granite complicated the cleanup efforts.
Vandalism at a popular park in Fort Collins
CBS Denver reported that the Twin Silos Park suffered from vandalism in January of 2021. The incident remains under investigation from authorities. The Fort Collins Police Department sought help from the community in identifying possible suspects. The park decided to close and lock the restrooms early as a result of the incident.
