6 Children Accused of Causing $80K in Damage at Creekside Middle School
Six elementary-aged children are accused of causing roughly $80,000 in damage after breaking into Creekside Middle School in Fairfield on three separate occasions, according to police.
Five of the children, ages 9 to 11, are facing felony vandalism and breaking-and-entering charges; a 6-year-old involved is not being charged.
Police say the group forced their way into the school’s wrestling room, where they used a hose to flood the floor, destroying wrestling mats on two occasions. Officials report that the children also damaged equipment, including a weight scale, scattered sports gear, and stole items.
The break-ins occurred over the course of one week in September, on the 19th, 23rd, and 24th. The school district received an estimated $80,000 repair and replacement quote.
Authorities say each child admitted to breaking into the building after being read their rights with a parent present.
Fairfield Police Chief Stephen Maynard said that, after consulting with the district and prosecutor’s office, charges were deemed necessary to ensure accountability, seek restitution, and reinforce that the behavior would not be tolerated.
No charges were filed against the parents. The children were released to their families after being charged in October and are expected to appear in Butler County Juvenile Court on November 13.
This case highlights that children in conflict with the law have the right to be treated in a manner that promotes their dignity and worth, reinforces their potential for constructive growth, and prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment, in accordance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
