Enjoy (Don’t Destroy) Your Pool This Summer

As neighborhood pools open for the summer, Fairfax County Police are asking residents to enjoy their community pools safely and responsibly, and to be alert for potential vandalism.

Along with the traditional slower pace and extra free time in summer months, occasionally bored teens or other curious sorts trespass onto private property pools and cause havoc, police report.

"In 2011, there were 26 destruction incidents and 18 theft/larceny incidents at community pools in the ," said West Springfield District Station Master Police Officer (MPO) J.T. Frey.  "These incidents cost homeowners’ associations thousands of dollars and often result in extensive pool closures."

So far in 2012, there have been two destruction incidents and one larceny/theft. Officers have created an informational poster that explains the serious consequences of pool vandalism and are distributing them throughout the West Springfield District.

Crime prevention officers stress that inadequate or non-functioning lighting are two of the major security deficiencies found at many neighborhood pools. Residents are encouraged to notify management when they see lights that aren’t properly functioning or don’t cover most of the property and to help prevent their pools from being targeted by summertime vandals.

Violators for these vandalism infractions may be charged with a Class VI felony, resulting in 1-5 years imprisonment and fines of up to $2,500.