After a facility at a local park was recently damaged by graffiti, Whitehorse RCMP and City of Whitehorse Parks and Recreation department are looking to the public for assistance in identifying people involved.
According to surveillance footage, a group of around 15 people attended Shipyards Park with cans of spray paint between April 19 and 21. Significant damage was done to doors and walls at the loading dock of the Frank Slim Building at the park.
"Actions like this are really disappointing to see," says Sgt. Dustin Grant, Whitehorse RCMP Acting Detachment Commander. "We know how hard city employees work to make our parks a welcoming and accepting place for families, Whitehorse citizen, visitors, and events or programming opportunities that use the greenspaces here in the city. Our goal during these investigations is to identify the people involved and also educate on the problems caused by graffiti and other mischief in public areas."
The City of Whitehorse recently launched its graffiti awareness campaign and residents can play a part. Report graffiti via the Engage Whitehorse link on the City of Whitehorse website. The information collected will help inform enforcement efforts and next steps to stop the spread of graffiti in our City.
"Graffiti is top of mind for our community," says Whitehorse Mayor Laura Cabott. "It damages buildings, costs money to remove, and reflects poorly on our City. Through our graffiti awareness campaign, we hope we can deter vandals, and offer support to businesses to help keep our community clean and graffiti-free."
Police ask that anyone who can identify a person / people in the photos call police directly for further follow up and investigation, by calling 867 667 5551. To remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers via phone at 867-667-6715 or online at www.crimestoppersyukon.ca.