Skateboarders, rollerbladers and other users of “rolling devices” could face criminal charges if they damage property or hurt another person at parks in the city of Mishawaka.
The Mishawaka parks board voted 5-0 during its meeting Monday night, Aug. 24, in favor of a rule banning activities that could damage park property at all parks within city limits, according to the South Bend Tribune.
- RELATED: Proposed skateboard ban would affect eight parks in Mishawaka, Aug. 17, 2015
Specifically, the rule says this:
“Aggressive use of a rolling device is prohibited in any Mishawaka park or on any park property. ‘Aggressive use’ is defined as the reckless, knowing or intentional use of a rolling device in a manner that could damage or deface any park property or fixture or creates a risk of bodily injury to another person or animal.”
If someone using a skateboard at a park in Mishawaka causes damage or injures another person, they could be charged with criminal mischief or criminal recklessness, according to the Tribune.
Both charges could be a misdemeanor or a felony depending on how much damage is caused or how badly another person is injured.
The rule was adopted following discussion about a possible ban on skateboards, roller skates and longboards in eight Mishawaka parks connected to the Riverwalk.
The rule applies to all 26 Mishawaka parks. A full list of city parks can be found on the city’s website.
- RELATED: Proposed ban on skateboards in Mishawaka parks is discriminatory, Casey Hendrickson says, Aug. 20, 2015
