Published: September 28, 2009 08:58 pm      

Who did it?

Rewards hopefully will bring arson arrest

Money talks, as the old saying goes, and hopefully any ensuing “conversation” will lead to an arrest for arson in the destruction at John Humbird Elementary School.

As Times-New readers know from news stories in the Sunday and Monday editions, playground equipment worth tens of thousands of dollars was rendered useless over the weekend. Authorities are convinced the relatively new equipment was set ablaze on purpose and, in an attempt to bring the guilty to justice, Allegany & Mineral County Crime Solvers is offering a reward of up to $1,500, with the pot further sweetened by $5,000 from the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Intentionally damaging property is never acceptable, but to turn a recreational area for children into a plastic and metal scrap heap is especially detestable. The repugnant act brought a great sense of loss to the school and the neighborhood around it. Boys and girls today seem surrounded by disturbing images on television and in the movies; now they are confronted by a crime scene in a place where educators work hard to make them feel comfortable and safe.

Naturally, the slides and climbing walls were insured, but it will take time for everything to be sorted out.

Information may be given anonymously by using the arson hotline at (800) 492-7529 or through Crime Solvers at (301) 722-4300. Callers can help police find the person who burned the equipment and perhaps make some money in the process.

A conviction could teach the arsonist a valuable lesson — that those who break the law will be held accountable for their actions — and make anyone think twice before striking that match.