Judging from the saw marks on the yoke I'm guessing that this coin-op viewer was stolen.

Is it true that security cameras are to be incorporated in the monument renovation?

A 'before' picture (of an un-sawn viewer yoke):

I don't think it was sawn off, it looks like it was snapped off. There is a metal fence pole (which would have provided plenty of leverage) laying on the ground, directly beneath the viewer mount, at the base of the retaining wall. Either way, the lack of civic mindedness, lack of civility, lack of respect for the environment in New Haven is stunning.

Again, FWIW, judging from the SAW MARKS on the yoke...(see close up photo) ...I'm guessing that this coin-op viewer was stolen.

According to the Parks Department, the company that installs and maintains the binoculars puts them in in the spring and removes them in the fall. This year someone cut off one of the units (as you suggested FS) and apparently the Milford police found it in the river and returned it to the company. If this isn't fixed by late spring, let's look into it more.

As far as "lack of civic mindedness" in New Haven goes, yes there are some bad eggs, but the New Haven community is the most active and engaged of any community I've ever lived in.

Thanks for reporting this and to the Parks Department for the good info.

Justin Elicker
Ward 10 Alderman
justin.elicker@gmail.com

Many thanks for the info Alderman Elicker.

Now that those quarter thieving Milford magpies have their saw technique down, I hope that if they try it again they get snagged on camera.

Per Alder Elicker, it looks like the Parks dept is aware of and addressing the issue. Would love to see it back soon as the weather warms up.