NEWS

Spring break-related vandalism not a problem so far

City officials say there have been no spring break-related vandalism incidents in Destin so far this year.

Annie Blanks | 315-4450 | @DestinLogAnnie | ablanks@thedestinlog.com

In a stark contrast from years past, the city of Destin and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office say they have had no reports of spring break-related vandalism incidents so far.

In the past, spring breakers have been responsible for stealing city street signs, especially in the Crystal Beach neighborhood, which has street names such as Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

“A few years ago they had stolen some of the sports-related equipment up at Morgan’s (Sports Center),” said Lance Johnson, city of Destin Parks and Recreation director. “They stole some of the bases one year. I’m sure they think it’s a joke cause they stole third base.”

He said spring breakers were also responsible for breaking windows at Morgan’s and tagging city property with graffiti. He added that corner flags were stolen from the soccer field last weekend, but there was no way of knowing if the theft was spring-break related.

Michele Nicholson, spokeswoman for the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, said they have had no reports of spring break vandalism so far this year. 

There are still five more weeks left of spring break. Louisiana State University lets out next week, and Atlanta public schools let out the first week of April. Johnson hasn't ruled out that vandalism could still occur.