Westchester County police are seeking the public’s help in identifying three people suspected of vandalizing and burglarizing Playland amusement Park in September.
Police said the suspects cut or ripped out fiber optic cables in an electrical room, snatched 200 stuffed animals and attempted to throw a photo booth off the boardwalk at the amusement park in Rye.
Entering Playland overnight, Sept. 23-24, the individuals hauled away the stuffed animals in garbage bags, Westchester County Police said in a news release. Now, police said they are asking the public’s help in attempting to identify suspects.
“The trio arrived on the Playland beach in a small boat a little before midnight on Sept. 23,” police said. They then climbed a fence to enter the amusement area.
In the electrical room, the suspects cut or ripped-out fiber optic cables that are used for phone and internet service, police said.
The suspects were unable to throw the photo booth off the boardwalk.
Westchester County Executive issues statement on Playland incident
“This incident is both infuriating and heartbreaking. Being young is one thing — being destructive is another. I am angry and deeply disappointed by the actions of the individuals who broke into Playland Park and caused such senseless destruction,” Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said, in part, in a statement provided by a spokesperson for Westchester County Police. “Playland is a place that brings joy and memories to families across Westchester and beyond — not a playground for reckless behavior or criminal acts. These young people didn’t just damage property; they violated a beloved community space and disrupted services that our staff work tirelessly to maintain.”
County police said detectives have previously shared photos and case information with law enforcement in the region, but suspects have not been identified.
Officials ask that anyone who recognizes the suspects call detectives at 914-864-7916.
Police said they also have phone and electronic tips lines for the public. Calls, e-mails and text messages to these tips lines are confidential, according to the police.
The tip line is 800-898-TIPS (8477). Police said people can send email, text messages and small video clips to tips@wccops.com. The WCPD mobile app has a submit-a-tip button, available for Apple and Android phones, the police said.
(This story may update.)
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Police seek info after Rye Playland electrical room vandalized, 200 stuffed animals stolen
Reporting by Michael P. McKinney, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
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