The Catasauqua Borough Municipal Complex, 90 Bridge St., was vandalized with graffiti around 4:30 a.m. Feb. 1 on the east and south sides of the building.

The graffiti was quickly removed, but it has created an impact on the community. Police Chief Doug Kish said there is video evidence of the incident, and the investigation has revealed some potential suspects.

This was not seen as a gang-related incident, but rather as a defilement of public property by individuals who lack respect for the community and the law. Mayor Barbara Schlegel reported there is a heightened awareness of this problem. The area has been plagued by vandalism in the past, but the problem has reportedly been intensifying over the years.

The police force has been patrolling the area, and residents are asked to be aware of suspicious activity and characters. They are urged to report suspicious behavior to the authorities promptly. While there is no formal neighborhood watch set up, citizens of Catasauqua are asked to increase their vigilance.

Unfortunately, the municipal complex was not the only building affected by this recent act of vandalism. Pie’s On Pizzeria, 102 Pine St., was vandalized at the same time with graffiti on the front of the building.

John Landi, the proprietor of Pie’s On, said there had been reports of people with an unclear description loitering in the area. The damage to the establishment was minimal but is a reflection of the increase in vandalism and the need for heightened community awareness and involvement.

Schlegel reported there are four to six calls a year for this kind of activity. She said authorities are handling all the particulars of this act of vandalism, so residents should be assured this is being taken very seriously.

Residents are asked to call Kish at 610-264-0577 if they have any insight into the recent vandalism or if any further activities occur.