Vandalism at Radio Tower Causes Regional Police Radio Disruption

UPDATE: The Riverside County Sheriff's Department confirming they have not been affected, and that the vandalism occurred near Thousand Palms. Palm Springs and Indio police departments are also confirming no impact.

Vandalism at a radio tower near Thousand Palms is disrupting police radio service for the Cathedral City Police Department.

According to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a burglary alarm at 3:31 a.m. Wednesday in the area of Bob Hope Drive and Varner Road. Upon arrival, they discovered a radio tower had been vandalized. Deputies searched the area but no suspects were located. The investigation is ongoing.

The Cathedral City Police Department says the vandalism is specifically affecting their radio reception, reducing coverage until repairs are complete. Technical crews are working to restore full service.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Office says its own radio system has not been affected. The Palm Springs Police Department and Indio Police Department also confirmed they are not experiencing disruptions.

According to Cathedral City's press release, emergency and non-emergency phone lines are still operational, and officers are continuing to respond to community calls. It's unclear when services will be fully restored.

Anyone with information about the vandalism can contact Cathedral City Police at (760) 770-0300 or the Detective Sergeant at (760) 770-0381. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Coachella Valley Crime Stoppers at (760) 341-STOP or WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.