RCMP have charged six youths in connection with a summer vandalism spree in Denare Beach that was gang-related in appearance only.
The youths, all males, face a combined total of 68 charges for August incidents involving slashed tires as well as spraypainted vehicles and buildings.
While some of the graffiti appeared to be gang-related, police say the youths were not affiliated with any gang.
One of the youths confessed that the purpose of the sham was to generate fear, RCMP said.
All of the youths are Denare Beach residents who were between the ages of 13 and 17 at the time of the offences, which occurred on Aug. 26 and 27.
Their names cannot be released.
Over 10 vehicles and likely six properties suffered damage in the spree, which primarily targetted Welsh Crescent and Cressey Drive.
Other vehicles were damaged but owners did not file police reports because, in some cases at least, the vehicles were not being used.
Cst. Scott Stuart of the Creighton RCMP said the “success story” of the case was the teamwork of all officers as well as the community.
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“The evidence is in the youths’ own admissions due to skilled investigators taking interviews with the youth” he said.
Police said additional charges against other suspects may be brought forth, but for now the majority of individuals have been identified.
In Denare Beach, the spree sparked something of a community uproar that manifested itself on Facebook.
Crime has been a growing concern in the village, with some residents complaining of frequent vandalism and of police response times that are unavoidably hindered by the distance from Creighton.
In the case of the August vandalism, RCMP thanked Denare Beach citizens for their input and patience throughout the investigation.
Police remind the public that they can always provide anonymous information by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Residents are also welcome to call the Creighton RCMP detachment directly at 306-688-8888.
