Ouch, who would want to hurt a tree?

DEAD WOOD-Vandals purposely pulled down this Oak Park tree. Respect for property, both public and private, is taught to our citizens since the day they are born. In Oak Park, some apparently never got the message.

Twice this year vandals have come to this quiet neighborhood community to tear up the young trees that were planted at Deerhill Park. In the latest episode last week, nine trees were broken off at their base and ruined for good. They can't be replaced and it will cost thousands of taxpayer dollars to plant new ones.

Parents, do you know where your children are?

The park also has been hit with graffiti several times this year and the frustration over these acts of vandalism is mounting. Nobody likes their community property defaced.

Vandalism is an interesting phenomenon because the crime is senseless, that is to say, nothing is ever gained. Researchers say vandals are bored, enjoy taking risks, or feel the need to live up to peer pressure. Most often the culprit is a teenage male with a beer in his hand, a chip on his shoulder and a penchant for physical violence. Perhaps young people commit vandalism because they want to strike a blow to the "establishment" and make some early mark on society. But this is clearly not the way.

There are no excuses. Vandalism is for losers.

If you or a friend knows who might have committed the recent vandalism at Oak Park's Deerhil Park, call the Ventura County Sheriff's Department today at (805) 654-9511. Your identity will be kept confidential.

If you can't teach them proper behavior, at least teach them a lesson.