Once again the Museum of the San Ramon Valley was struck by vandals. This time damage was done to the old train station’s caboose, which houses restrooms for the public’s convenience. Also vandals struck at the permanent display of a railcar compartment with mannequins dressed in period costume.
Vandalism is a continuing crime in our community. There also has been vandalism at several schools, and last spring the new Veterans Memorial Monument was vandalized even before it was dedicated. There were 40 cases of felony vandalism in Danville in 2004, and this year so far 44 cases have been reported, according to the Danville Police Department.
Vandals may be looking for cheap thrills but the cost of their destruction is dear, as money is spent on repairs and replacing destroyed items instead of new museum displays. Schools pay to paint graffiti with funds that should go toward new books, computers, sports equipment and student activities. For vandalism on public property, the money for repairs comes out of our taxes. If it’s a business, the cost is passed on to consumers through higher prices.
When vandals strike, it makes us angry and sad, but also a bit fearful that someone would want to hurt us for no cause. Many reasons are given why vandals act out: anger, revenge, defiance, boredom. The only thing conclusive seems to be that it is usually young people. The Danville police say it’s done by kids who were not taught to respect other people’s property.
Regardless of who are the perpetrators, vandalism is a community problem, and it is our responsibility to work together with law enforcement to help prevent it. We cannot hire guards for every park and school and museum, but we can all keep our eyes open and immediately report anything out of the ordinary or that looks even slightly suspicious.
This community cleans up vandalism in a timely manner, showing that its residents take pride in it. No matter the age or the intention of the vandal, remember, it is a crime, and it hurts us all. Just a few minutes of destructive “thrills” can be costly to a town. A few moments of vigilance may make all the difference. It’s our community. Help protect it.
