Bleachers swiped from renovated Salsinger Park in west Detroit

Thieves steal hundreds of dollars worth of bleachers from Detroit's Salsinger Park baseball diamond

DETROIT – After more than $100,000 dollars in renovations the old Salsinger Park on Detroit's west side is showing signs of life. 

However, if you look closely, you can also see how a community landmark has been targeted by thieves.  The aluminum, three-tiered bleachers surrounding the baseball diamond were stolen after just two weeks. 

Had the bases not been bolted to the cement, they'd be gone too. 

"We try to bring up this part of the community. And just to see folks who just don't care who think it's their livelihood is to as you beautify something to steal what you bring in to beautify, it's disheartening," said Richard Brown, who coaches little league football at the park.

Park supporters believe scrappers, who steal aluminum and copper for cash, are behind the crime.

"What upsets me the most is to see it stripped, for profit," said Stephanie Johnson-Cobb.

It is estimated the loss reaches hundreds of dollars.  That's money the park doesn't have. 

Focus Hope was behind the revitalization efforts. Park goers now hope the community can come together to replace what was stolen.

"Stop hurting the children. Stop hurting your community," said Brown.

The baseball and softball programs at the park have been placed on hold.