Slashing Santa: Christmas Vandals In Wayland
WAYLAND (CBS) -- Wayland Police say vandals struck about a dozen homes, cars and a church in the Cochituate section of town, including about 10 of the 75 to 80 inflatable Christmas decorations in front of the Kadlik home on South Street, which is locally popular during the holiday season.
"They're beyond repair. They're just ripped completely," explained Pat Kadlik who said nothing like this, decorations slashed and shredded, has happened in the 37 years they've been attracting thousands of people. "It's very heartbreaking. It's a lot of work for my brother and me. We start Thanksgiving Day. When everybody's having their dinner, we're out here working," said Kadlik.
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WBZ's Carl Stevens reports.
Down the block, at St. Zepherin's Church, clear plastic enclosing a nativity scene was broken as was a church window, which has been fixed, and a sign that reads "Keep Christ in Christmas" was knocked down. Several lights on cars in the neighborhood were also smashed.
WBZ-TV's Ron Sanders reports.
Wayland Police believe it happened between the night of New Year's Day and the following Sunday.
They're trying to find out if there's a connection with vandalism to some tools and wall board at a Wayland High School building project a couple weeks ago. "I think it's a good possibility. There doesn't seem to be any motive for these particular acts of vandalism. That's why we're asking residents to report right away if they see anyone suspicious, especially late at night.
"If we can locate the people responsible, we'll bring the most serious charges we can against them," said Chief Irving.
Pat Kadlik said she is less interested in charges than restitution.
Police believe at least two people were involved.
They ask anyone with information that might be helpful to call the Wayland Police Detective Division at 508-358-4721 or their tip line at 508-358-1726.
