In three separate incidents, some of the colorful fiberglass oxen on display throughout Hopewell Valley have been vandalized, police say.
The first incident occurred on Aug. 7, when someone poured orange paint over an ox on display in front of the Pennington Market. The next incident occurred on or after Aug. 15, when someone stole an ox from its displayed location on Elm Ridge Road and later returned it with a foot broken off of it. Damage was estimated at $500. The most recent incident was sometime overnight on Aug. 17, when an ox on display near Denow Road and Van Brunt Road was knocked over.
Anyone with information on these incidents in asked to contact the Hopewell Township Police Department at (609) 737-3100.
The 68 decorated, life-sized oxen that grace the fields, sidewalks and other locations throughout the Hopewell Valley are part of the Stampede Public Art Exhibit hosted by the Hopewell Valley Arts Council. The oxen, painted by local artists, will be auctioned off in Oct. 19. Collectors can also participate in an online auction beginning in mid-September. For more information visit the Hopewell Valley Arts Council’s website.