Town implements vandalism tip line

By Ed Harris
Editor
Southington officials are hoping that residents are ready to ACT against vandalism.
Officials recently unveiled the Active Community Tip Line (ACT), a way for callers to anonymously report vandalism related information. The tip line number is 860-276-1234.
A rewards program was also established for callers who provide reliable information to police. The reward amount is set on a case by case basis.
“We’re trying to be proactive rather than reactive,” said Town Councilor Dawn Miceli, one of the officials behind the formation of the tip line. “We’re looking to stamp out vandalism.”
Officials have said Southington does not have any more or any less vandalism than other communities, but the town has had its share in recent months. There has been graffiti left on buildings, the ice rink downtown was vandalized twice this past winter, causing thousands of dollars in damage and someone has been doing donuts in town parks.
Town officials held a community forum on vandalism earlier this year and asked for the public’s help. Along with the tip line, police have also stepped up patrols and security cameras have been installed around town.
“It has to be everyone getting on board,” Miceli said. “Our residents take pride in their community.”
The Southington Police Department will oversee the tip line. The line is now active.
The police department describes vandalism as graffiti, the disturbance and destruction of town buildings and equipment, the theft of town items and more. The police department has additional information on vandalism on its webpage.
Town Manager Garry Brumback said the initial allocation for the reward program is $2,500.
The tips line is manned during police duty times, and the SPD’s website has a link to report instances online.
Police ask residents to call the main police number if they witness a crime.