Vandals damage high school football field
CHERRY TWP — An unknown vandal aboard a utility vehicle drove roughshod across the Moniteau High School football field this week.
But that wasn't all. The front lawn of the high school principal's home sustained similar damage.
State police said they are investigating the vandalism as a case of criminal mischief that caused more than $16,000 in damage.
Moniteau head football coach Bob Rottman said he was angered when he found out about the vandalism.
“It's frustrating and disappointing that someone would do that,” he said. “Why someone would do something like that, I don't know.”
Former head football coach at Moniteau, Jeff Campbell, is the director of operations at the school. He's on vacation this week and will be charged with the task of repairing the damage when he returns.
Rottman said he's seen the field and doesn't think Campbell will have trouble repairing it. He also said he and his players are willing to help out in any way they can.
“If he needs us to help fill in divots or roll the field or plant grass, we'll be there,” Rottman said. “I think (Campbell) will get it done. It doesn't look too bad.”
The investigation began after police learned someone riding a side-by-side utility vehicle rammed a fence at the high school on Route 308 in Cherry Township shortly after 2 a.m. Tuesday.The mischief-maker then drove the vehicle onto the property, including the football field, and did “multiple doughnuts” before fleeing in an unknown direction, authorities said.Moniteau athletic director John Stoughton said in addition to the damage to the football field, a portion of the track also suffered damage in the incident.The track was just resurfaced last year.Moniteau officials believe that the field would be repaired in time for Moniteau's opening game Aug. 23 against Kane.“It's very unfortunate for sure,” Stoughton said. “(But) with our custodial staff, I have no doubt the field will be ready for the football season.”Police said they later learned that a side-by-side utility vehicle had also damaged the front yard at the principal's home.Investigators believe that same person or persons were involved in the vandalisms at both locations.Cpl. Tim Morando said police are reviewing surveillance video that could assist in the investigation, which is ongoing.
