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POLICE have charged a ‘young man’ in relation to damage done to the Rosalind Park Christmas tree.
First Constable Georgina Taylor said she interviewed the man on Wednesday morning.
“He is charged with criminal damage,” she said.
First Constable Taylor said the investigation was continuing.
EARLIER:
POLICE have interviewed a female in relation to damage done to the Rosalind Park Christmas tree.
Senior Constable Charlie Heatherley said the female assisted police with their inquiries on Tuesday night.
"A female has been spoken to," he said. "There is other people we would like to speak to.
"We are in the early stages of our investigation."
Police are yet to lay any charges.
Police have reviewed CCTV footage and want to speak to four people in relation to the incident.
Police have released images of two of the people.
Senior Constable Rob Bennett said the tree's decorations were smashed between 11.30pm and 11.40pm on Sunday.
The incident sparked community outrage.
City of Greater Bendigo mayor said the council had a no-tolerance approach to people who damaged public property.
"Hopefully people will stop doing this nonsense," he said.
"If we make enough noise then maybe people will stop doing this."
Cr Lyons said he was pleased police were progressing with their investigation.
Baubles were found smashed into pieces across the ground on Monday morning.
Some Christmas ornaments were found in the surrounding garden.
The picket fence situated around the tree was also moved.
The council will spend $1000 to repair the tree's damage.
Signs will also be installed around the tree to let people know the area is under CCTV surveillance.
Senior Constable Bennett said there were several cars driving past the tree when the damage was done.
"We wish to speak to anyone who saw what happened," he said.
Bendigo teen Ebony Gellion said the incident was disrespectful to the Bendigo community.
“Bendigo is a family orientated place and the decision to vandalise the tree is costing the community,” she said.
Bendigo Senior Secondary College employee Paul Gregg witnessed council staff erect the tree before it was lit up on Friday night.
“I saw the effort that was put into putting the tree up,” he said.
“It is disappointing.
“It is senseless.”
Senior Constable Bennett said it was disappointing to see Rosalind Park to be targeted by vandals again.
In October the park had several of its newly-planted trees snapped and ferns ripped out.
If anyone has any information about damage done to the Christmas tree they are urged to contact Bendigo police on 5448 1300 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.