Vacant Office Building Falls Victim To Vandals In Newtown Twp.

NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — After being hit by vandals several times, police have stepped up security checks at a vacant office building in the 600 block of Penn Street.

Newtown Township Police Chief John Hearn said there have been a number of reports of criminal mischief at the building since September, the most recent two weekends ago when nearby residents reported windows were smashed and graffiti scrolled on the side of the building.

"Anyone found trespassing in the property or damaging the property will be investigated and charged accordingly," said Hearn. "We have been informed that township officials have reached out to the property owner to secure the building and ensure quality of life for all neighbors."

According to Hearn, police will continue to closely monitor the site and neighboring buildings and are asking residents to report any suspicious activity to 9-1-1 for an immediate police response.

(Photo by Jeff Werner)

The property, which formerly housed the administrative hub of the Council Rock School District and was later used by the Sloan School before it relocated to Northampton Township, was sold in March 2023 to a local owner and investor for $4.1 million, according to the Flynn Company, which handled the transaction.

Located in the Newtown Business Commons, the 6.48-acre property is zoned for mixed-use and is included in the township's newly passed overlay district, which opens up the property to several new uses.