After numerous complaints of vandalism, drug and alcohol use and disorderly conduct at Durling Park, Wadsworth police have closed a shelter on East Boyer Street.
The Wadsworth Police Department increased foot patrol through the park within the last month. They have closed the shelter to individuals who have not reserved it, making it a possible crime of criminal trespass for those gathering without permission.
In a Facebook post, Wadsworth police said the department has received numerous complaints about the behavior of several individuals at the park.
""The majority of these incidents took place inside the shelter," the post indicated.
Over the past year, similar problems were reported at First Street Park in Rittman. Residents complained of drug deals and even found needles in areas where children played. To address the problem, the Rittman Rotary Club raised nearly $2,000 to set up seven cameras on the pavilion.
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City officials in Wadsworth are considering a similar solution but for now, they have decided to close the shelter— a move that could be temporary or long-term.
"It is unfortunate if the general public can't use public facilities, and it's just unfortunate that we have this problem in the first place," said Jennifer Brothers, a Wadsworth resident.
Robert Patrick, Director of Public Service in Wadsworth, wants to take a more precautionary approach when it comes to park security.
"We want everyone to feel safe in the park and so at this point, we thought, you know what, we'll just go ahead and close it down so there really shouldn't be anyone there unless it's for one of those permitted uses."
Wadsworth police were patrolling the park on Wednesday afternoon, but the department said it doesn't have the resources to keep officers there at all times.
