It’s the pits $1,000 reward for cave vandals, thievesBy Anita Miller News Editor San Marcos — A reward of $1,000 has been offered for information leading to the conviction of anyone involved in vandalism and theft at a protected cave site in South San Marcos.
Jon Cradit of the Edwards Aquifer Authority said sometime around July 22, several people illegally entered the site, which is protected habitat of a federally endangered species. The offenders cut through a pipe gate to get inside, then stole or damaged thousands of dollars worth of scientific equipment, scrawled graffiti on cave walls and left behind trash and cigarette butts. Cradit said the damaged equipment “is important to water quality, aquifer monitoring and endangered species.” Because of the sensitive nature of the site, Cradit would not reveal its exact location but said he has already spoken with, and established rapport with, neighbors in the area. “Neighbors actually did see some guys” in the area days prior to when Cradit believes the break-in took place, he said, adding that the neighbors confronted the strangers. “There were several different types of very expensive water quality instruments” damaged, he said. Additionally, a “job box” containing electrical power equipment and battery pack was smashed. Because the site is a protected habitat of an endangered species, Cradit said the federal Department of the Interior was notified of the crime. San Marcos Police are investigating. Anyone with any information is being asked to contact Cradit at (210) 477-8523 or e-mail _jon@tcmacaves.org_ (mailto:j...@tcmacaves.org) . _http://www.sanmarcosrecord.com/local/local_story_227194505.html_ (http://www.sanmarcosrecord.com/local/local_story_227194505.html)
