When we heard last week that Laurens was having a meeting with authorities about a vandalism and bullying problem, we figured a dozen or so people would be there to complain.
Boy, were we off the mark. More than 75 community residents met with law enforcement and elected officials Tuesday night to discuss criminal behavior in the village and town and what can be done about it.
We were prepared to write an editorial about how it was good that people of Laurens were being proactive about youth behavior, especially with summer coming. You know, Gilbertsville went through it a few years ago, and people there also tried to nip the problem before it got any worse _ with some apparent success.
Based on the turnout at Tuesday's meeting and hearing anecdotes from residents about some of incidents occurring, we wonder if the problem in Laurens is more serious than outsiders could have imagined.
Mayor Robert Zack said the village and town of Laurens began experiencing problems with vandalism and other crimes about three years ago, and they haven't abated.
Actually, it seems like they must be getting worse.
Recent incidents reported by residents _ but not necessarily to police _ have included the shearing of hair from the tails of miniature horses, someone holding a gun to the head of a man on Main Street and a break-in.
Residents at the meeting said they have been shot at by BB guns, harassed and threatened; a horse was pitchforked; and property has been stolen or vandalized. They also reported that teenagers and preteens trespass at will.
Others said drug-related crimes, including the theft of prescription pills from homes, are occurring.
Ordinarily, it might be suggested that some youths around Laurens are bored and turning destructive in their quest for kicks. But it seems the problem could be deeper than a lack of activities or constructive excitement.
The mayor said the village is seriously considering a curfew for teens, and surely no one wants to punish all young people because of the misdeeds of a minority.
A state sergeant and Sheriff Richard Devlin told residents they weren't aware that the situation was so out-of-control, and they encouraged people to call when there were problems.
The old saying about recognition of a problem being half the solution could be the first step to a more peaceful Laurens community.
Like Mayor Zack said, "I'm glad to see such a big turnout, because we need to get everybody together to find some sort of solution."
