Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON — The Reno County Sheriff’s office is investigating the burglary and criminal damage of the Prosperity Grade School building north of Hutchinson.

The Sheriff’s office reported an individual interested in purchasing the property noticed water running, that shouldn’t have been, when they visited over the weekend.

School Superintendent Mike Berblinger said that a couple of drinking fountains were damaged and it caused water to leak throughout the school.

There was also damage to fire extinguishers and paint cans used to cause additional damage.

Officials say damage could be in the thousands of dollars. However, Berblinger says they only have early estimates.

Obee Grade School was also broken into over the weekend, but the juveniles were caught in the act according to Berblinger.

He says the damage there was minimal with only a window broken.

Both grade schools were closed by the Buhler School District after the new Plum Creek Elementary School was opened.

The district has been trying to sell the buildings now that they’re no longer needed as school facilities.