SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating vandalism that costs the city of Wichita thousands of dollars.
The week of July 4, the air conditioning unit at Hyde Park Community Facility, 201 S Greenwood in Wichita, was stripped of copper rendering it useless, according to a social media report from the city of Wichita.
The community facility was unable to maintain a cool temperature during the triple digit heat wave to offer programing or rentals to the public for an entire month. The damages exceeded $25,000.
A new unit was purchased and installed on August 8 with the intent of opening programming and rentals back up. However the plan was deterred due to the new unit being vandalized again in less than 24-hours of installation.
At this time the community facility is being shut down until late fall due to the damage caused from the vandalism. Earlier in the year, the location had several glass windows shattered throughout the building.
With multiple crimes at Hyde Park, Wichita Park & Recreation will end up spending over $65,000 in repairs.
Authorities want to encourage everyone, if you see something, say something. Call Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111 to report a crime and possibly receive a reward. Tips can also be submitted online at www.stopcrime316.com.