VASSALBORO, Maine — The Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office is looking for the person or persons responsible for cutting off the top of a pine tree next to the Vassalboro Fire Department.
"This tree was donated and planted several years ago by Vassalboro Fire Department member Tom Richards and his wife. Tom volunteered for the VFD for 43 years. Any information would be greatly appreciated," the fire department said in a Facebook post Tuesday morning.
The sheriff’s office posted on Facebook asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Deputy Curtis by calling the Augusta Regional Communications Center at 207-624-7076.
Vasselboro Fire Chief Walker Thompson said the vandalism occurred between Friday afternoon and Sunday morning. Thompson said they have cameras on either side of their building with motion detectors, but said the tree was just far enough where it didn't trigger it. He said the department will look into updating its camera system.
Thompson said he doesn't believe this was a malicious act.
"If somebody was looking to get a Christmas tree because either they couldn’t afford it... or this was out of convenience… I wish they would have knocked on our door and asked us. We would have given them the $60 so they could get a tree," Thompson said. "At the end of the day, we are here to help and serve the town of Vasselboro."
Because the tree has sentimental value, Thompson said he hopes someone will come forward.
"It meant something to us all," he added.
