Reward For Information About Vandalism In SD 71

Comox Valley Schools is offering a reward of $2000 for information regarding multiple incidents of vandalism at schools so far this school year. 

In mid-October, there were multiple break-ins at Ecole Puntledge Park Elementary that resulted in nine broken windows and other serious damage that required immediate repair by staff. 

It’s estimated that the damage will exceed thousands of dollars. Ecole Puntledge has recently been the subject of several other serious acts of vandalism, as well as attempted arson and theft. 

There have been many other recent acts of vandalism at Comox Valley Schools, including Cumberland Community School which had several windows broken and racist graffiti has been removed multiple times. 

Courtenay Elementary School, Lake Trail Community School and the former Comox Elementary have all been targeted.

Comox Valley Schools says it is working closely with the RCMP to identify those who are responsible for these acts and others at school properties.

Officials say they are looking over surveillance and digital evidence that might help solve the crimes.

Comox Valley Schools superintendent Tom Demeo says, “The last few years have seen a spike in vandalism in the Comox Valley,” adding that last year, SD71 spent in excess of $30,000 on vandalism and loitering related costs, twice as much as the previous year. 

The district has spent over $20-thousand dollars on vandalism and loitering-related costs since the beginning of this school year.

If you have any info that might help the investigation, you’re asked to call the RCMP.