Four kids caught in Monroe storm-drain mischief

Published 10:26 pm Thursday, March 26, 2009

MONROE — A tip from a Monroe resident Wednesday night helped snag a group of teenagers believed to be responsible for dislodging storm-water grates all over the city.

A 15-year-old boy allegedly confessed to lifting up a 70-pound storm drain lid Wednesday night and dumping it into the drain, Monroe police spokeswoman Debbie Willis said. He also admitted to similar incidents from a few weeks ago.

Since November, the city has had to repair nearly two dozen storm grates, Willis said. It’s a time-consuming and costly process, as public works had to fix many of the lids after hours.

The prank also created dangerous situations for drivers and pedestrians, Willis said. Someone easily could have fallen into the storm drains, which can be up to 10 feet deep.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the mischief.

Two boys and two girls were arrested Wednesday near the 19600 block of Rainier View Road, Willis said. They all were questioned and released to their parents.

A report on the 15-year-old boy who confessed was forwarded to Snohomish County prosecutors to determine if malicious mischief and reckless endangerment charges are warranted.

The investigation continues. Anyone with information is asked to call Monroe police at 360-794-6300.