Police Looking For Christmas Tree Vandals

O’ Christmas Tree, O’ Christmas Tree, why won’t your lights shine so brightly?

The answer: someone stole 300 of the lights off Desert Hot Springs tree last week.

“Isn’t it a shame that just a couple of individuals can ruin it for so many people in the community that really admire seeing the lit tree every time they drive by it,” said Mayor Yvonne Parks.

The city lit up the tree and unveiled renovations to nearby stores last week.

Brian Gimino’s repair shop is right across the street from the tree.

He’s frustrated.

Vandals already tagged the side of the stores and then targeted the tree.

“You can see the city is trying to do better for the community and, again, they just come in and … like they don’t care. It kinda kills the Christmas spirit, too.”

The city says it will replace the lights, as taxpayer’s expense.

Gimino says it’s a price he’s willing to pay.

“Absolutely. 100 percent I would. Absolutely. Like I said, it’s good for the community,” he said.

Parks said she suspects the vandalism might be the work of children or teenagers.

And, if they try again, security cameras will be watching.

If you have any information about the vandalism, call Valley Crime Stoppers at 760-341-STOP.

You can remain anonymous and could be eligible for a $1,000 reward.