9-4-13 fdl man gets probation for hamilton park law enforcement memorial vandalism

A Fond du Lac man convicted of vandalizing the Hamilton Park Public Safety Memorial has been placed on probation.  Fond du lac judge Gary Sharpe placed 18 year old Elvin Hightire on probation for a year and ordered that Hightire pay more than $1000 in restitution and court costs and write a letter of apology.   Fond du Lac Fire Chief Pete O'Leary tells WFDL news he hopes Hightire has learned his lesson.  "He has to realize what he did was wrong and understand the type of hurt that caused people,"  O'Leary said.  "If he realizes that and understands that what he did was wrong and promises he won't do that or anything similar to that again I'll be satisfied."   Hightire pleaded guilty Tuesday to a misdemeanor charge of criminal damage to property.    Hightire admitted to damaging the memorial in July 2012, but said he was leaning against the 900 pound  memorial when it tipped over.   Meanwhile a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the re-opening of the Hamilton Park playground will be held at noon this Thursday.  The playground equipment was destroyed by arson fire in May.  The new playground was built thanks to public donations including a $10,000 gift from the Stone Foundation.