SIMI VALLEY : 10 Youths Arrested in Vandalism Spree
Ten Simi Valley youths have been arrested on suspicion of shooting out more than 120 windows in local businesses and cars during the past five months. The shootings caused about $25,000 in damage.
The two 15-year-old and eight 16-year-old boys told police that they were “having fun” and “doing it for a thrill,” according to police reports.
The juveniles used a slingshot-type device and marbles, and destroyed so many windows that “they can’t even remember how many they broke,” Sgt. Fred James said.
The first arrests were made Jan. 5 when a traffic officer stopped a suspicious-looking vehicle with three of the youths in it, reports say. The shooting apparatus was in view, prompting further investigation.
All 10 had been students at Simi Valley High School, but two have moved out of town since the vandalism began.
The final arrest was made in Big Bear on Monday. After the arrests, all 10 were released to their parents. The probation department is reviewing the case to recommend whether charges should be filed.
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