Two Juveniles Charged w/Criminal Damage to Bliss Park

An investigation conducted by Effingham Police regarding property damage at Bliss Park in Effingham has resulted in two juveniles being charged with Criminal Damage to Property.

Reports of damage estimated at close to $700.00 occurred at Bliss Park on May 3 at approximately 1:50 P.M. Multiple items were damaged, including a closed-circuit television (CCTV) valued at $90.00 and a newly planted tree valued at $200.00, both owned by the City of Effingham, as well as a Pepsi vending machine valued at $400.00, owned by Pepsi Mid America.

Video surveillance from the scene helped detectives identify three juveniles involved in the incident who were subsequently interviewed; two of the youths admitted to damaging the properties and after the case was reviewed by the Effingham County State's Attorney’s Office last Friday, those two juveniles were formally charged.

One 13-year-old juvenile from Effingham faces a single count of Criminal Damage to Property; a 14-year-old juvenile from Dieterich was charged with two counts of Criminal Damage to Property. All charges are Class A Misdemeanors.

Chief Jason McFarland commended the collaborative effort by both patrol officers and detectives, noting that a concerned resident immediately reported suspicious activity which officers promptly investigated. “Having a citizen who alerted authorities to the situation as it was happening helped officers immediately gather evidence and identify witnesses, which resulted in charges being filed in this case. This is a great example of residents working together with police to solve crimes and help keep our community a safe place to live,” according to McFarland, who added, “Reporting suspicious activities as they are occurring not only helps police investigate better, it also ultimately reduces criminal activity, as there is a better chance of identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators.”