Ponoka was violated over the past weekend as a number of businesses and organizations were vandalized and broken into after hours.
From the days of Sept. 4 to 7 five places were forcefully entered including Jones Boys Saddlery and Western Wear, Ponoka Denture Clinic, Ponoka Rising Sun Clubhouse, Perry’s Pizza and Riverside Motor Inn.
The doors of the establishments were shattered and some suffered additional damage.
“It’s just frustrating because they just damaged the doors for no good reason,” said Terry Jones, owner of Jones Boys. “Now we have to repair the damage.”
Next door, the employees at the Denture Clinic were also disappointed with the vandalism
“There was nothing here for anyone to take,” said Jan Kornelsen. “It’s pointless, it’s just an act of vandalism.”
This past weekend was the second time the Rising Sun Clubhouse was broken into since Aug. 29. Const. Brian Harper attending the scene and assisted with fingerprinting the place and asks that the community to assist them by bringing forth any information related to these violations.
“We need some help because there is not much evidence being left behind,” said Harper. “It’s getting frustrating, especially because our owners are getting left with the bill.”
There have been speculations as to whether or not these break-ins will lead to a definite decision on a town curfew but Ponoka RCMP Cpl. Jim Lank is careful about believing the guilty was a young person.
“A curfew might prevent this if it was in fact youth that were responsible for this,” said Lank. “At this time we can’t assume it was youth.”
Ponoka RCMP are still investigated the incidents and currently there are no suspects. Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact the Ponoka RCMP at 403-783-4472 or if wishing to remain anonymous contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.