Concerned Manning residents are offering a $200 reward for information about the identities of the folks responsible for allegedly trashing Gibbons Street Park on Monday afternoon.
Elizabeth Briley, a member of a devotional group that meets at the park on Tuesday mornings, said on Facebook that the park was strewn with trash and what appeared to be used fireworks.
"We arrived here this morning and could not believe our eyes," Briley said. "It is absolutely ridiculous that someone enjoyed this beautiful area and then chose to leave it in such a rude, disgusting manner."
Briley and her companions notified city officials, who responded to clean up the mess. Magistrate Judge Pro Prothro, a former president of the Clarendon County Junior Chamber of Commerce who helped raise more than $50,000 to renovate the park more than four years ago, offered $100 for information on the culprits. Another resident said she would match the reward.
Manning Mayor Julia Nelson said it "is disappointing to know that someone chose to use Gibbons Street Park and did not abide by the rules that govern all of our parks."
Nelson said those wishing to utilize the parks for parties are supposed to complete an application at City Hall and leave a $100 deposit, which is returned if the park is left "in the condition in which it was found."
"Due to the litter in the photographs provided, I doubt seriously these individuals legally reserved the Gibbons Street Park," Nelson said.
Nelson said she'd heard reports that the park was being used at night.
"No one should be in any city park at night," she said. "If this is witnessed again, please call 911. I would like to strongly suggest for any citizen witnessing or seeing something that doesn't look right, to call 911 and make a report. This is important whether it's a park, business or home."
She said anyone visiting a city park who feels uncomfortable with activities going on there should also call City Hall at (803) 435-8477 or 911.
"Now that we are aware of these issues, discussions will be held with our city administrator and chief of police to decide which course of action will best resolve and deter these types of actions," Nelson said. "However, it is illegal and unethical for anyone, including myself, to tell law enforcement what, when or how to charge individuals for an offense. Chief Blair Shaffer and his staff are competent to handle the legal issues."
Nelson said Monday's trashing of the park was an "unfortunate and unacceptable incident."
"I completely understand the outrage and disgust," she said. "I can assure you, the issue will be addressed."
Anyone with knowledge of who may have used the park Monday afternoon, evening and night is asked to call (803) 435-8477. Callers may remain anonymous, Nelson said.
