A 19-year-old New Jersey resident and two accomplices face felony charges following a break-in and vandalism incident at Playland amusement park in Rye, New York, on September 23, 2025. The suspects, who reportedly used a stolen boat to access the waterfront property, caused an estimated $57,000 in damages and stole approximately 200 stuffed animals during the off-season closure.
Story Highlights
- Anthony Conkling, 19, and two others allegedly broke into Playland amusement park in Rye, New York, on September 23, 2025.
- The suspects used a stolen boat from a Connecticut club to reach the waterfront park.
- Westchester County Police estimate the vandalism and theft caused $57,000 in damages, including the theft of 200 stuffed animals.
- Conkling surrendered to authorities in early November and faces multiple felony charges.
- Two additional suspects, ages 19 and 20, have been identified by police and are expected to surrender.
Investigation Into Break-In and Vandalism
The incident occurred just before midnight on September 23, 2025, when Anthony Conkling, 19, of Wyckoff, New Jersey, and two associates allegedly sailed a stolen boat from a Connecticut club across Long Island Sound to Playland amusement park. The park, which was closed for the season, was accessed from its waterfront side. Westchester County Police confirmed that the suspects vandalized electrical systems, attempted to move a photo booth on the boardwalk, and fled the scene by boat after taking 200 stuffed animals. The identity of the perpetrators was established through public tips and park surveillance footage.
Suspects Face Felony Charges
Conkling surrendered to authorities in early November. He was arraigned in Rye City Court on multiple felony charges, including grand theft, vandalism, and breaking and entering, and was released on his own recognizance. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 25, 2025. Police have identified the two additional suspects, ages 19 and 20, and anticipate their surrender soon.
Teen boater bro busted for trashing amusement park from ‘Big’ with boneheaded pals: cops https://t.co/BwduIFt1oQ pic.twitter.com/EWQhYGiJpk
— New York Post (@nypost) November 9, 2025
Playland Park Sustains Significant Damage
Playland amusement park, which has operated since 1928, reported $57,000 in damages from the incident. Park officials stated they are undertaking costly repairs and reviewing security measures following the breach of waterfront access. The park is known as a historic American landmark and was a filming location for the movie Big.
Watch the report: Teen Boater’s STUPID Stunt $57K Damage at Iconic Park from Tom Hanks’ Big
Sources:
Arrest in Jersey Teens’ Midnight Boat Raid on Playland – Talk of the Sound
Teens use boat to allegedly raid, vandalize amusement park and steal 200 stuffed animals
Teen boater bro busted for trashing amusement park from ‘Big’ with boneheaded pals: cops
Boat-riding vandals break into Playland, take 200 stuffed animals
