Authorities look into possible vandalism of expensive geotubes on Nantucket

"Based on the evidence reviewed, the clean, linear cuts are consistent with a premeditated and willful act of vandalism. This is no way an accident or the result of natural forces."

"This damage poses serious risks to the Sconset Bluff, Baxter Road, nearby utilities, and public access to one of Nantucket's most important and cherished landmarks, the Sankaty Head Lighthouse."

"On Feb. 2, the organization found thin, deep slices in the sides of the geotubes - as if someone had cut them with a knife."

Geotubes—sand-filled textile bags designed to protect Sconset Bluff from erosion—have sustained significant damage from winter storms and alleged vandalism. The Sconset Beach Preservation Fund, which maintains these structures, discovered thin, deep cuts in the tubes on February 2, suggesting deliberate sabotage. The organization reported the incident to police and hired former Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis to investigate. Davis concluded the clean, linear cuts were consistent with premeditated vandalism, not natural causes. The damage threatens the bluff, nearby utilities, and access to Sankaty Head Lighthouse. The preservation fund posted a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Read at Boston.com