RICHLAND COUNTY — The City of Mansfield Parks and Recreation Dept. and the Richland County Park District issued a statement Monday condemning the recent acts of vandalism at Fleming Falls Preserve (Richland County) and Liberty Park (Mansfield).
“These actions undermine the shared investments our community has made to ensure safe, welcoming, and high-quality public parks for all residents,” said Louis Andres, public works director for the City of Mansfield.
“Criminal acts against community assets will not be tolerated. We are committed to pursuing and holding accountable any individuals who damage or vandalize our public parks,” Andres said.
The sentiments were shared by Jordan Tackett, executive director of the Richland County Park District.
“We remain fully committed to providing safe, well-maintained parks that serve as places of recreation, connection, and pride for our community,” Tackett said.
“Our parks represent significant investments supported by foundation funding, tax levy dollars, volunteers, and partnerships with private businesses—all dedicated to enhancing quality of life in Mansfield and Richland County,” he said.
At Liberty Park on April 21, a man drove his car onto the basketball courts and damaged the tiles by doing doughnuts just after 7 p.m. He was arrested that night by Mansfield police and charged with felony vandalism.
On April 22, at about 5:30 p.m., four people broke into the Education Center at Fleming Falls Preserve.
They kicked through a locked door, smashed two security cameras, damaged a third, and caused other minor damage. They also stole a fire extinguisher and sprayed it inside the building.
All four were identified through video and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident.
Andres and Tackett said community partnership is essential to protecting local parks. Anyone who sees suspicious activity or has information related to vandalism or other crimes is encouraged to contact local law enforcement authorities immediately.
The Richland County Park District provides opportunities for county residents of all ages and abilities to learn about and explore nature through educational programs, preservation of natural areas, and the establishment of parks and trails throughout the county, including the Gorman Nature Center, the B&O Trail and the Fleming Falls Nature
Preserve.
The City of Mansfield Parks and Recreation Dept. maintains 21 neighborhood parks throughout the city with a variety of amenities aimed at providing free, safe and accessible public spaces in the city.