Teens accused of vandalizing Cape Coral golf courses, causing $8K in damages

CAPE CORAL, Fla. —

Teens in Cape Coral have been accused of vandalizing two golf courses, breaking into a pro shop, and causing thousands of dollars in damages.

“They use the golf course as a BMX course,” Sandra Dills, a Cape Coral resident, said.

Linda Smith, another Cape Coral resident, expressed frustration over the behavior. “I think it's a shame that the kids have no respect for people's property in general. Not just here, but all over the city,” she said.

On Monday, teens reportedly broke into the pro shop at Coral Oaks Golf Course but did not steal anything. Employees at the course said teens frequently cause problems and believe the slow season is contributing to the behavior.

“They've had a bone to pick with the guy; he's the course superintendent here that just manages the stuff. I'm sure that they're just causing trouble, you know, they don't like him. He doesn't like them,” said Richard Hofer, an employee at Coral Oaks Golf Course.

This isn’t the only golf course targeted. At Palmetto Pines Golf Course, teens reportedly broke into a vending machine, stole a golf cart, and caused $8,000 in damages, according to a police report. Surveillance video shows teens driving the golf cart, emptying a fire extinguisher, and causing damage before leaving.

The owner of Palmetto Pines Golf Course reported the incident to 911. “I was at Palmetto Pines Golf Course that, we have a vending machine here that I guess the kids broke into,” the owner said during the call.

Linda Smith emphasized the impact of the vandalism. "Kids shouldn't be vandalizing. That's not kids being kids, it's hurting the rest of us who want nice things,” she said.

Police are still searching for the four individuals involved in the incidents.

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