Reward offered for info regarding vandalism to WW1 crosses

Two Oamaru families have offered a combined $1,000 reward for information that identifies the person or people who damaged the World War 1 memorial crosses under the oaks on Severn Street in Oamaru. The families are appalled by the vandalism and disrespect shown to the memory of the North Otago men and women who died in World War 1.

In response the Waitaki District Council will contribute the equivalent sum to repair the damaged crosses.
Community Safety Officer Alison Banks said one of the families are long term residents of Oamaru and the other recently moved and settled in the town. “They don’t want to be named and have no connection to the families the crosses represent.”
“This type of disregard to the dead should not be tolerated and is disrespectful to the families left behind. That is why it is important that those responsible should be held accountable” a spokesperson for one of the families said.

Waitaki Mayor Alex Familton described the vandalism as “mindless desecration”. He said he is “supportive of the offer” of a reward and will make sure the damage is repaired.
RSA President John Longman was heartened to hear the news of the reward and was happy to support it. “If the offender/s are caught I would like them to spend the ANZAC day with us and learn about the sacrifices many people and families made to protect this country”.

Information can be left on the free call line 0800 PO PO Waitaki (0800 76 76 92) or by contacting the Police or Waitaki District Council Community Safety Officer directly. (The text line is unavailable at the moment).