3 ACCUSED OF VANDALISM

JACKSON -- Three juveniles taken into custody early Thursday for vandalism and property damage were said to have admitted committing an estimated 30 similar offenses in the city dating back to November.

Two of the boys were apprehended about 2:30 a.m. Thursday after officer Darren Shell saw them while on routine patrol on Donna Drive. The juveniles ran but were caught after a short foot chase, police said. The third boy was detained later. The three are ages 14 and 15.

One was found in possession of a duffle bag containing some of the items that have been used to vandalize and damage cars and houses around the city. Detective James Humphreys said the vandalism consisted of pouring syrup and mustard on cars, toilet papering houses, putting tape on cars, and writing profanities on cars and houses with black markers.

The vandalism has been occurring throughout the city with regularity since November, Humphreys said.

He said the boys gave written statements admitting to having caused the damage.

They will be charged with property damage and vandalism, Humphreys said. They cannot be charged with curfew violation because Jackson does not have a curfew.

He said the boys had been sneaking out at night to commit the crimes. After processing Thursday, the boys were released to their parents.

Humphreys said the crimes were committed at random. "They didn't know any of their victims," he said.

Humphreys said the boys didn't give any reason for committing the crimes.