Police arrest boy, 16, after extensive graffiti damage to Buffalo Grove parks

Buffalo Grove police have arrested a 16-year-old Buffalo Grove boy in connection with extensive graffiti vandalism at Buffalo Grove parks.

Police, who earlier this week requested the public's help in identifying the vandals, said in a news release Friday that they received information from the Lincolnshire Police Department School Resource Officer at Stevenson High School that led them to the youth.

His parents voluntarily brought him to the Buffalo Grove police station and during an interview, which included the parents, the juvenile admitted to his role in the vandalism, the news release said. Investigators are consulting with the Lake County States Attorney's office on charges.

Police Lt. Tom Nugent said it appears the youth, who was acting alone, was motivated by boredom and immaturity. He said that officials will seek restitution for damages, which could range from $1,000 to $5,000 based on whether the graffiti can be removed or equipment has to be replaced.

Between Feb. 27 and March 7, there was extensive vandalism at Mike Rylko Community Park and Willow Stream Park, as well as more limited damage at the Raupp Museum, according to park and police officials.

At Willow Stream Park, graffiti tagging targets included two skylights and two bathroom doors and a garage door in a park district building, a pingpong table, checkers table, several signs, garbage can lids, gas meter and meter box, several benches, drinking fountain, several pieces of playground equipment and skate park ramps.

At Mike Rylko Community Park, targets included the Splash-n-Play, baseball fields, skate park and pedestrian/bike path, handicapped parking signs, no smoking signs, garbage cans, recycling bins, light poles, restroom doors, drinking fountains, benches, public telephones and skate board ramps.