By David Fleet
Editor
Goodrich-Two 16-year-old high school juniors claimed boredom prompted a month-long graffiti spree that included spray painting village signs, school property and several local businesses.
Genesee County Sheriff Sgt. Joe Parks said the vandals were arrested on Aug. 25 at their homes after tips from the community and a story in The Citizen led law enforcement to the youth.
‘The community response was outstanding,? said Parks. ‘Once the calls started coming in, we tracked the pair down on My Space, where we found the logo ‘GVS? and other clues.?
Parks added that ‘GVS,? found spray painted on village signs and other area buildings, were the initials for ‘Goodrich Vandal Squad.? In addition, a swastika was found painted on Reid Elementary.
Village Manager Jakki Sidge reported that on three occasions this summer, signs were also painted with the initials ‘GVS.? The damage has been in several different areas in the village and since summer it’s occurred outside the downtown area. Sidge said the vandals hit Dutch and Ridge roads, along with Janaroy Court over the past two weeks. In addition, signs were painted during the construction project on Hegel Road.
‘The two confessed to the crime at their homes,? said Parks. ‘The prosecutor’s office will receive the report before any formal charges are filed. However, malicious distruction of property is a possibility, and expulsion from school is also considered since their property was also spraypainted. It’s also possible a hate crime charge could be issued, due to the swastika they painted.?
The two will also pay restitution of $400 to the village for the signs and damage to brick walls at the Atlas Township Fire Station, Reid Elementary and other local businesses.