Vandalism under investigation
• CCTV footage of the foreshore toilets taken at 11.39pm on February 20.
By Taylor Clyne
March 03, 2021
A group of individuals will now be proceeded against by police following a string of vandalism offences across two public toilet buildings in Bridport.
The most recent offence took place on the evening of the outdoor movie night held on the Village Green on February 20.
A group can be seen entering the toilets at the Adventure Playgroup along the Bridport foreshore, smoke pouring out of the building and the group exiting.
Director of Infrastructure Dwaine Griffin said thanks to new CCTV cameras installed near the site clear images are available for prosecuting.
“It’s particularly disappointing as it is now the fourth or fifth time that this has happened in the last three months,” he said.
“They have targeted the Pier Beach toilets too smashing numerous large holes in the ceiling, setting fire to toilet rolls and plastic sanitary bins as well as continually damaging toilet systems, seats and smashing beer bottles and other bits and pieces.”
Mr Griffin said the buildings were built with vandalism in mind and are fairly robust however these individuals have still managed to create more than $20,000 worth of damage so far.
“I just don’t understand the attraction with smashing up toilets.
“In the meantime, we will be repairing them again; it's a loss of amenity for the community through the vandalism and then again when they are closed due to repairs – not to mention the cost.”
However, in this instance Council will be seeking all damage costs from those involved.
“We expect them to be charged and we will also be chasing all costs in this instance.
“The camera footage is very clear.”
The case now sits with the Scottsdale Police and anyone with information relating to the incidents is encouraged to call 131 444 and quote report number 656782.