Arnold Police are investigating a burglary and vandalism at the Arnold Farmers Market. The culprits broke into a shed and stole items from it and spray-painted graffiti around the market, police reported.
The incident happened overnight between Aug. 25 and Aug. 26 at the market, which is near the front of Arnold City Park on Bradley Beach Road. The market was not shut down on Aug. 26, even though the theft and damage were discovered early that morning, said Teresa Kohut, the market master and Arnold Parks and Recreation Department superintendent, the report said.
A wagon, sound system, picnic umbrella, cleaning supplies and U.S. and Missouri flags were stolen from the shed. The stolen items were valued at about $990, according to the report.
Lime green spray paint was used to write racial slurs and the word “cash” on the market’s walkway and main pavilion patio. In addition, the shed door and door frame were damaged. The cost to clean up the graffiti was estimated at $100, and the damage to the shed door was estimated at $200, Arnold Police reported.
As of Aug. 31, none of the stolen items had been recovered, and no suspects had been identified, Detective Lt. Jeremy Christopher said. He asks anyone with information about the incident to call Arnold Police at 636-296-3204.
The market is held from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays from April 29 through Nov. 11, with special market events held periodically throughout the rest of the year.