The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, Va. — A string of vandalism and burglaries has gripped the town of Clifton Forge, leaving residents and business owners concerned about the safety of their community. The latest incident occurred late Wednesday night, when the Clifton Forge Post Office was vandalized, adding to a troubling list of recent crimes that includes the Royal Vape store, the LOVE sculpture, and local parks.
Amy Lynn Nicely, who oversees the Post Office, expressed her dismay: “Got a call at midnight that my Post Office was trashed. This is horrible—and a felony. If you have any information or saw anyone leaving late this evening, please contact the CFPD. This is currently a 24-hour lobby. I hope I don’t have to start locking doors at 5 p.m. Please help if you saw something.”
The Clifton Forge Police Department, led by Chief Scott Balser, has been actively working to address these incidents. Over the past several months, local parks have been a target of repeated vandalism. The department had installed trail cameras to monitor activity, but one of the cameras was located and damaged. Now, in collaboration with Town Manager Chuck Unroe, Clifton Forge Public Works, the Parks and Trails Committee, and Lumos, the town is stepping up its efforts. Plans include installing Wi-Fi in all town-owned parks, deploying surveillance cameras, and painting commonly vandalized areas with graffiti-proof paint.
Chief Balser explained additional measures, such as erecting graffiti panels to provide an outlet for artistic expression. “The panels will be monitored for any profane or inappropriate artwork and repainted periodically to allow for new contributions,” he stated.
The Royal Vape store on Main Street has also fallen victim to two burglaries. Officers continue to interview witnesses and follow leads in hopes of identifying those responsible.
Chief Balser urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “If you see something, say something. Call 911 or contact us directly at 540-965-1770,” he said.
