On February 14, 2020, the Hickory police administration was made aware of multiple police vehicles and several civilian vehicles that had sustained damage due to nails in tires. Over fifty black ½” metal tacks were located in employee parking access areas and public parking access at the police department.
Police are currently submitting video footage to our digital forensic lab for review. The administration is confident that images will be retrieved of the suspect or their vehicle to aid in identification.
This crime is considered highly dangerous to general public safety and the safety of our officers. Incidents of vandalism to tires could cause potential vehicle crashes due to tire failure or, more importantly, the inability of emergency personnel to reach citizens in need due to the inoperability of vehicles.
Citizens that visited the Hickory Police Department on Thursday, February 13th or Friday, February 14th are encouraged to check vehicle tires for damage. Anyone affected by this incident that requires a police report for documentation can obtain a copy, free of charge, at police headquarters.
This investigation is on-going and anyone with information is encouraged to contact Hickory Police at 828-328-5551.
“This is more serious than mere damage to property. This act puts lives at risk and is inexcusable. Once we identify those responsible, we will pursue charges to the fullest extent to the law,” said Chief Thurman Whisnant.
