York Regional Police has released a video of two suspects who vandalized a community library in Newmarket, and is increasing patrols in the area.
The video shows the two suspects walking on Queen Street near Main Street, then stopping at the Little Library on the front lawn of a residence. One suspect picked up a rock and threw it at the cabinet, breaking the glass on the door.
The suspects then fled east on Queen.
The library belongs to Lori Robbins, who told NewmarketToday that she is heartbroken by the vandalism.
“It’s not offensive to anybody. It’s just a Little Library for the community,” she said, adding that the use of the rock, which had been painted with an inspiring message, “makes it even sadder … It’s just like, what do you do?”
Robbins said that when she showed the footage to police, they said the angle made it difficult to identify the suspects and there was nothing further they could do. In NewmarketToday's story and comments from readers, concerns about community safety were expressed.
Today, York Regional Police has now shared the footage with the public in hopes that someone will recognize the suspects and contact investigators. It is also asking for witnesses and any additional video from the area.
It also is assuring the community that it takes these reports seriously.
"York Regional Police recognizes that these incidents are concerning to members of the neighbourhood. As a result of other similar incidents, police patrols in the area have been prioritized. We do our best work in cooperation with the communities we serve. Anyone who sees anyone acting suspiciously or witnesses a crime is encouraged to call police as soon as possible. We will respond," police said in a news release.
Anyone with information or video footage is asked to call 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7142. You can leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online.
- With files from Joseph Quigley.
