Harrison Thorp 10:40 a.m.
Wednesday, September 17, 2025 10:42 am
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ROCHESTER - When Rochester Police catch up with the suspect or suspects involved in recent vandalism at the former Ben Franklin Plaza at 60 Wakefield St. they'll be looking at a three and a half to seven-year visit to a New Hampshire State Prison.
Rochester Police Capt. Jeremy Aucoin said the vandals destroyed three large plate glass windows and one smaller one that cost more than $7,500 to replace, which makes the vandalism charge a Class B felony.
Rochester Police Chief Gary Boudreau recently announced that a mobile surveillance trailer had been deployed in the municipal parking lot at 60 Wakefield St., where a NAPA Auto Parts store recently opened.
Boudreau has promised that whomever is found responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, according to a release from the city.
Aucoin told The Rochester Voice today that the recent vandalism was first reported to police on Aug. 6, but they believe it took place between July 29-31. He said the windows were broken by some type of pellet gun.
The last major vandalism in Rochester's downtown occurred in the summer and fall of 2022 when more than 30 cases of graffiti were investigated resulting in the arrest of a Rochester teenager.
Several juveniles were also involved in that vandalism spree.
He said the investigation is open and ongoing and police are asking anyone with information to contact the Rochester Police Department at (603) 330-7128. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Rochester Crime Line at (603) 335-6500 or by texting TEXT4CASH (and information) to CRIMES (274637). Cash rewards are available for tips leading to an arrest.