Full Breakdown
Investigation Underway After Vandalism at Riverside Park in West Lebanon
11/20/2025, 3:43:27 PM
Vandalism Incident Overview
In West Lebanon, New Hampshire, police are investigating an incident of vandalism that occurred at Riverside Park, where six newly planted trees were damaged. The trees, planted by the city's tree advisory board on October 18, were discovered harmed over the weekend, with some completely destroyed and others uprooted. Rick Desharnais, the sports coordinator for the Lebanon Recreation, Arts and Parks Department, confirmed that the damage was reported to the police on Monday morning after a department employee made the discovery.
Details of the Damage
The trees, which included three swamp white oaks and three Kentucky coffeetrees, were approximately 10 feet tall and 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Susan Johnson, vice chair of the Lebanon Tree Advisory Board, assessed the damage and noted that three of the trees were beyond saving. She managed to replant one that was only slightly damaged and expressed hope for its survival. Another tree had a significant crack in its trunk, while the sixth tree was cracked in half and taken to Johnson's home for potential recovery. The estimated cost of the damage is around $2,000.
Context of the Tree Planting Initiative
The vandalism comes as part of a broader initiative to plant 220 trees throughout Lebanon by April 2028, funded by a nearly $245,000 grant from the Urban and Community Forestry Program of the U.S. Forest Service. So far, volunteers have successfully planted 65 trees, with plans to plant an additional 120 trees next year on city-owned and private properties.
Official Responses and Investigative Efforts
Lebanon Police Chief Phil Roberts stated that the investigation is ongoing, but there are currently no leads due to a lack of surveillance cameras in the area and no identified witnesses. He described the incident as unusual, noting that vandalism at Riverside Park has been minimal in the past. Roberts indicated that the responsible party could face charges of criminal mischief, which may range from a misdemeanor to a felony based on the damage incurred.
Community Reactions and Concerns
Johnson expressed her belief that the vandalism appeared intentional and systematic, stating, “It seemed very intentional, very thorough.” She remarked on the rarity of such incidents at the park, emphasizing the community's surprise at the targeted destruction of the young trees. Desharnais echoed this sentiment, highlighting the park's history of minimal vandalism.
What's Next
As the investigation continues, discussions regarding the installation of surveillance cameras at Riverside Park are underway, although no decisions have been finalized. The community remains hopeful for the recovery of the damaged trees and the continuation of the tree planting initiative.
