2 boys to be charged in vandalism at Jeannette public works garage

Police said they plan to charge two boys after mowing equipment and items in the Jeannette public works garage were vandalized during the weekend.

The pair went to the building on North Fourth Street Saturday and were seen on surveillance cameras discharging two fire extinguishers in the cab of the mower and pouring salt inside, said city foreman Rich Ault.

“The wiring was damaged on that vehicle,” said Police Chief Donald Johnston Jr.

The boys left and came back on Sunday. They smashed numerous pieces of electronics, such as televisions and computers, that the city had been preparing to take to Westmoreland Cleanways for recycling, Ault said. Metal shards and other hazards were strewn around the salt storage area.

“I’m working on a bill for it,” Ault said. He estimated they caused hundreds of dollars in damage.

Johnston said the boys’ parents were notified. They will be charged in juvenile court.

City workers cleaned up the mess Monday, Ault said. The mower was towed into the shop for repairs. The property is under 24-hour surveillance, he said.