BETHALTO - The Bethalto Police Department is investigating a break-in involving three females who tampered with Christmas donation boxes in a local park at 5:19 p.m. on Dec. 8, 2025. The incident was captured on video surveillance, and authorities are urging the individuals to come forward voluntarily.
Bethalto Police Chief Jason Lamb said the case is likely related to juveniles and that the department expects to resolve the matter shortly after reviewing the footage.
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"We have all those volunteers who start beginning in November and have already done so much work on the Christmas donation campaign," Lamb said. "It is very disheartening when we see no regard for the public whatsoever and their volunteer efforts."
The donation boxes, secured with padlocks, were forcibly opened, the chief said, although it is unclear at this point exactly what or if anything was taken. Donations typically include envelopes with money or gift cards, which are not inspected by authorities. The Bethalto Spirit Group, responsible for the donation campaign, is working with police to assess the situation.
Chief Lamb added that Bethalto is increasing its surveillance cameras in its parks.
"We are putting more and more cameras out there all the time. If you are out there causing damage, we will find you," he said.
The department continues to investigate the property damage and encourages anyone with information to contact the Bethalto Police Department at (618) 377-5266.
