By Amanda Collins
A reward is still up for grabs for information that leads to the arrest and conviction for the person or persons responsible for vandalizing the caboose in Stuart.
Patrick County Sheriff’s investigator Tyler Wilson said that so far, no one has come forward to provide any information or potentially collect the reward.
The vandalism was reported to the Patrick County Sheriff’s Office on April 21, according to authorities. The report stated 11 exterior windows in the caboose were broken, and vandals also damaged the interior.
The Stuart Town Council in May approved a $500 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible. Shortly after, a local business donated $100 to the reward fund, for a total of $600.
Terry Tilley, town manager, said that he has received a quote on the repair of the windows.
Maintenance crews “are getting to it as quick as they can,” Tilley said. “Once they get the windows replaced, we will start on the inside.”
“It’s disappointing to know that the taxpayers paid for the caboose and people destroyed something that belongs to the community,” Councilman Terry Dalton said.
At a previous meeting, the council also discussed installing security cameras and lights as a deterrent in the future, but no final decision was reached.
Tilley also noted that some of the paint on the exterior of the caboose has faded.
Mayor Ray Weiland said someone will be coming out to look at it and the council “will do whatever they suggest.”
Anyone with information about the vandalism incident is encouraged to call Wilson at (276) 694-3161.
During their July 18 meeting, the town council:
- Approved a motion to donate $500 to the Patrick County O’Zone All-Star team. The team will be competing in the World Series.
- Tilley said a rehab project on a water tank should be finished soon.
- Tilley said the water leaks that he is aware of have been repaired.
- Weiland said that Kevin Heath is expected to provide information regarding a sewer project. “I think he understands that we are ready. Hopefully we will have something soon,” Weiland said.
- Town Attorney Chris Corbett said he is waiting for a quote on a fidelity bond and hopes to have it soon.
- Weiland said the town’s website had been hacked. It now is being updated and expected to soon be back up and running. He also noted the town’s Facebook page seems to get more traffic, with nearly 2,000 followers.
- Terry Dalton, councilman, asked about the blight abatement and the house located near Hardees. Corbett said they will get to it when they have the time.
