Paris closes playground after someone removes bolts, screws from structures

Screws are missing from the playground equipment at Moore Park in Paris. Submitted photos

PARIS — The playground at Moore Park beside Route 26 was closed Monday after someone removed bolts and screws from structures.

Town officials learned of the incident Monday morning when a parent discovered the tampering while her child was at the playground.

“We do not know when it happened, why it had happened, or who may have been responsible,” Police Chief Michael Dailey said.

Among the equipment that was meddled with was a gate that was part of a climbing station/slide combo, Dailey said.

The park will remain closed until new parts can be shipped to the town from the manufacturer and the equipment inspected, according to a post on the Paris Police Department’s Facebook page. Parks and Recreation Director Candice Jack and town officials decided to lock the gate to the playground for safety reasons.

The incident drew dozens of comments on social media, with residents decrying the senseless act of vandalism. Several residents offered to donate bolts and screws, but the town said it has to get the replacement parts from the manufacturer.

The town is accepting monetary donations, which can be brought to the Town Office.