Halloween's mixed bag generates an idea

Plainfielders have reported mixed experiences with this year's Halloween activities.

Though anecdotal, I received numerous emails from neighborhoods around the city reporting that there were no problems with over-the-top behavior last evening, and that simply turning off the porch lights at 7:30 PM was enough to bring the festivities to an end.

There were, however, some exceptions.

Malicious damage, including breaking car windows spray painting cars on 'Mischief Night' took place in a localized area, according to Public Safety Director Martin Hellwig (and some email I received). Much of the activity appears to have taken place late in the evening Tuesday, as the calls did not start to come in to the police until yesterday morning, Hellwig said.

There was an incident of egg-tossing about 6:30 PM last evening, in which the homeowner was pelted and the exterior and the entryway of his house were splattered. He credits the police with a very quick response and accompanied the officer in an unmarked car throughout the neighborhood in search of the miscreant.

While praising Chief Santiago and the police for their promptness, the homeowner made an interesting suggestion: Why not use the Auxiliary Police to beef up Halloween security?

Seems like the perfect kind of activity for the voluntary force which has fallen into disuse under the current administration.

What do you think?

11:13 AM Update: I just learned that Cedarbrook Elementary and the Old High School were broken into last night. --DD

-- Dan Damon