Boys, 11 And 12, Arrested For Arson And Burglary At Valplayso

VALPARAISO, IN — Valparaiso police said two juveniles were arrested and held on several charges included burglary and arson over the weekend after an incident at Valplayso, 1440 Glendale Blvd. Police said officers responded to a report of a small fire at the shelter at 3:20 p.m., Oct. 20, and to help the Valparaiso Fire Department. According to police, Officer Michelle Kodicek began to investigated once she arrived on scene, and located a damaged back door to the shelter, which had been forced open and had a burning plastic beverage receptacle inside.

Officer Kodicek found two male juveniles, ages 11 and 12, from Valparaiso, who had been seen walking from the shelter when officers arrived, and shoe prints found on the back door matched the treats on the juveniles' shoes, police said. The officer interviewed the juveniles and their parents and each juvenile admitted responsibility for the damages.

Valparaiso Fire was able to put out the flames, estimating $950 in damage done to equipment inside the building, while there was no apparent structural damage to the shelter, police said.

According to police, the juveniles were both held on charges of arson, burglary, and criminal mischief at the Porter County Juvenile Detention Center.

Image via Renee Schiavone