SHAWANO, WI- As summer kicks into full swing, the Shawano Police Department is issuing a firm warning to parkgoers, especially teens and young adults, that disruptive or criminal behavior in the city’s parks will not be tolerated. Officer Brandi Hoffman said the department has seen a steady increase in reports of fights, vandalism, and general misconduct involving youth at various public parks.
“And so we see a lot of problems in the parks with the kids that are going and causing problems down at the parks and stuff,” said Hoffman. “Our department, a couple years ago, has decided that if you are in the park and you are fighting, vandalizing, causing problems, you’re probably gonna get one, maybe two chances. And then you’re gonna be trespassed from not only that park, but if you’re trespassed from one, it’s from all city parks.”
The enforcement policy was created in response to recurring issues and is meant to keep Shawano’s public spaces safe and welcoming for families, children, and community members. Hoffman emphasized that while some discretion is left to the responding officer, those engaging in serious or repeated misbehavior should expect consequences, potentially being banned from all city parks for the remainder of the season, or longer.
The department is also asking for the public’s help. Hoffman noted that many complaints about park behavior or criminal activity are first spotted on social media, sometimes by officers themselves. But by then, it’s often too late to act in real time.
“If you’re seeing stuff that is questionable, please call us,” Hoffman urged. “We would rather have you call us and we check it out and have it be nothing than to have something happen and nobody say anything. And now days later, we’re trying to follow up on it.”
The police department is reminding residents that prevention starts with awareness and communication. Parents are encouraged to speak with their children about making good decisions, respecting public property, and understanding the consequences of poor behavior.
“This is about protecting our parks and our community,” Hoffman said. “We want everyone to enjoy the summer, but it starts with making the right choices.”
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