Cuero in the Park's paddlewheel steamboat was one of three displays severly damaged by vandals over the weekend at Cuero City Park. A reward is offered for information. (Record photo)
$150,000 damage done to Cuero Christmas in the Park
by by Glenn Rea
(Posted 11/11/2009 08:00 am)
Reaction to Saturday night’s vandalism of three major Christmas in the Park displays has been swift and continues to grow.
Within hours of the discovery early Sunday, money and pledges began appearing in the form of a reward for information that can lead law enforcement to the people responsible.
By mid-day Monday, $2,500 was being offered for information that can lead to arrest and conviction of the culprits. The amount was expected to continue to grow.
Members of the December Events Committee that sets up Christmas in the Park each year began arriving behind the city lake early Sunday. Standing on the bank they could see the 37-ft. American flag display that was pushed into the lake. The sea serpent display was also under water and a large portion of the 85-ft.-long, 30-ft. high paddlewheel boat had been damaged beyond repair.
Early estimates indicate about $150,000 worth of damage was done. Committee Chairman Kay Lewis noted the items were insured but with a sizeable deductible.
With Christmas in the Park celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, it will open Monday, Nov. 23 at 6 p.m. on schedule but more than likely without the flag display and possibly others.
A meeting Monday morning with committee members, Cuero police and city administrators, plans were made to start a volunteer security watch. Those interested in assisting with the project should contact Cuero Police Department at 275-3552 or email: jtimpone@gvec.net.
Police Chief Chris Hernandez said additional patrols had already started watching the park and even more patrols will now be scheduled.
When asked what the punishment would be for those convicted of the vandalism, Chief Hernandez said it would be a first degree felony for an adult which could mean prison time. If the person convicted is a juvenile, he said they could face time in Texas Youth Commission and their parents could be made responsible for the damages.
Plans were also made Monday to take the reward information to local school campuses.
Speaking to the committee members, Mayor Randy Saenz stated, “I know how bad it hurts you all. I just want you all to know, we will prosecute the juveniles or individuals to the fullest extent of the law.”
Police Sgt. Jay Timpone noted, “This is an opportunity for this city and its citizens to pull together.”
He said his office will assist in coordinating volunteers to watch the park at night.
It was reported last year during the six week’s Christmas in the Park was open, almost 23,000 vehicles toured the event which represents between 60,000 and 100,000 people.
Committee member Buzz Edge explained there are about 120 displays in the project. He said, “We don’t get a nickel for doing this. We don’t charge. We have done it for free for years. We do it for the enjoyment of the people to come look at it.”
Anyone with information about the vandalism can contact the Cuero Police Department’s Crime Tip Line at 361-275-5555.
December Events Committee said volunteers are needed to help finish preparing for this season. Also anyone that wants to donate toward replacing the damaged scenes should contact Cuero Development Corporation, 207, E. Main St., Cuero, TX 77954.
