Rhode Island man arrested for allegedly dumping hundreds of needles, syringes at public gazebo
![2020-empty-background-graphic.00_00_00_00.Still001.jpg](https://images.foxtv.com/static.fox5dc.com/www.fox5dc.com/content/uploads/2023/09/764/432/2020-empty-background-graphic.00_00_00_00.Still001.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
William Otte, 56. (Credit: West Warwick Police Department)
WEST WARWICK, R.I. - A Rhode Island man is accused of leaving hundreds of uncapped needles and syringes at a public gazebo.
West Warwick Police said on Sunday, an officer was conducting a routine search at Arctic Majestic Gazebo.
The officer observed the dangerous items scattered on a concrete pad under the gazebo. The officer also observed some form of writing from a bar soap, but the wording was "illogical" and "fragmented."
Police called a biohazard mitigation company to remove the syringes and needles and properly disposed of them.
RELATED: Rhode Island councilman faces calls to resign after footage of drug arrest released
After an investigation, officers arrested 56-year-old William Otte and charged him vandalism.
According to WJAR, local residents are petitioning to have police patrol the area 24/7.
This story was reported from Los Angeles.