Rye, New York – A 19-year-old New Jersey man has been charged after allegedly breaking into the historic Playland Park in Westchester County, New York, with two friends and causing extensive damage, authorities said on Sunday.
The suspect, identified as Anthony Conkling, of Wyckoff, New Jersey, turned himself in to Westchester County police on Saturday. The break-in occurred on the night of September 23, when Conkling and his two alleged accomplices sneaked into the closed amusement park using a stolen boat, police confirmed.
According to investigators, the trio landed a small boat on the beach outside the county-owned waterfront park, which gained fame after appearing in the Tom Hanks film “Big.” The suspects then climbed a fence to enter the park grounds after hours.
Vandalism and Theft at the Iconic Park
Once inside, police said the three wandered around the park, damaged rides, and vandalized property. They allegedly cut and ripped out fiber optic cables, stole stuffed animals, and even attempted to flip a photo booth over the boardwalk railing onto the beach — but were unable to do so.
“The damage caused to property at Playland is estimated at $57,000,” Westchester County police said in a statement. The boat the group used was reportedly taken from a boat club in Connecticut and later returned undamaged.
County Officials Condemn the Vandalism
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins expressed outrage over the destruction at the beloved amusement park.
“I am angry and deeply disappointed by the actions of the individuals who broke into Playland Park and caused such senseless destruction,” Jenkins said. “This vandalism is both infuriating and heartbreaking for everyone who loves this historic place.”
The park, which has been a staple of Westchester County entertainment for decades, recently underwent renovations and remains one of the most iconic attractions in the region, as per The Post.
More Suspects Identified
Police confirmed that the two other suspects, both men aged 19 and 20, have been identified and are expected to surrender in the coming days. Their names have not yet been released.
Meanwhile, Anthony Conkling faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including:
- Burglary
- Trespassing
- Criminal Mischief
- Petty Larceny
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as they work to finalize the arrests of Conkling’s accomplices.
A Costly Prank with Serious Consequences
What may have started as a late-night prank quickly turned into a serious criminal case. The vandalism not only caused tens of thousands of dollars in damage but also disrupted park operations and angered residents who cherish Playland’s cultural legacy.
Local animal advocates and community leaders have emphasized that Playland Park is more than just an amusement park — it’s a symbol of Westchester’s history and family tradition.
What do you think about this $57,000 vandalism incident at Playland Park? Should the teens face harsher penalties for damaging historic property, or was it just a reckless prank gone too far?
Share your thoughts in the comments below — do you think justice is being served?
