RINDGE — In a pre-emptive strike against vandalism, Rindge Police arrested two young adults and took three juveniles into protective custody early Sunday morning, averting an attempt to toilet paper the Rindge Town Common.
After receiving tips about the planned mischief, officers conducted surveillance and intercepted the individuals, confiscating over 1,000 rolls of toilet paper in the process.
Among those detained, one minor was charged with possession and use of tobacco.
Concurrently, authorities responded to a tire fire set near Route 119 and West Main Street, sparking an arson and criminal mischief investigation.
Grant Mathias Ketola, 18, faces multiple charges including loitering/prowling, unlawful activities – littering, disobeying an officer, criminal mischief, resisting arrest/detention, and possession/use of tobacco by a minor.
William David Barlow, 20, has been charged with similar offenses.
Both Ketola and Barlow were released on personal recognizance bail and are scheduled for arraignment at the 8th Circuit – District Division – Jaffrey Court at 8:15 a.m. on Nov. 20.
The Rindge Police Department is continuing its investigation, seeking to identify other participants and expects additional charges as they process search warrants for electronic devices seized at the scene.
Officials have urged witnesses or those with information to assist by reaching out to the Rindge Police Department at (603) 899-5009 or through Cheshire County Dispatch at (603) 355-2000.
Officers Samuel Kelley and Jacob Stone, along with Chief Rachel Malynowski, are points of contact for the ongoing investigations.
No further details have been released at this time.
