Preschool Vandalism Damages Total $1,500
Vandals broke into a preschool Tuesday night, causing $1,500 damage by breaking toys and splashing tempera paint on the walls and carpet, police said.
A custodian discovered the damage Wednesday morning at the St. Mark Community Preschool, 2100 Mar Vista Drive, school spokeswoman Amy Simko said. Police said the vandals came through an open window after the last employee left Tuesday afternoon.
“They just had a ball,” Simko said. “In one room it’s just thrown everywhere. They poured it on some of the toys.” She said they also poured paint on a stereo, and used a toaster and took oranges from the kitchen.
Police Sgt. Mike McDermott said investigators believe children are responsible for the damage. Older youths or gang members probably would have spray-painted graffiti and stolen items, he said.
The school is closed for the summer and is scheduled to reopen Sept. 15. Simko said the walls will have to be repainted and perhaps the carpets replaced.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
