Vandals Caused $200,000 Damage at San Jose School

The shuttered Joseph George Middle School sustained extensive property damage after vandals accessed the campus.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Property Crime

Vandals Caused $200,000 Damage at San Jose School

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Vandals caused approximately $200,000 in damage at the vacant Joseph George Middle School in San Jose. The incident is currently under investigation by local police, though no arrests have been made.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by the Alum Rock Union School District regarding their surplus property. Officials are now considering new measures to secure the campus as they evaluate options to sell, lease, or repurpose vacant facilities.

The San Jose police investigation is ongoing following the discovery of $200,000 in property damage and bullets inside a classroom. No arrests have been made regarding the vandalism at the former school site.

The players

Joseph George Middle School

This is a former middle school in San Jose that was closed last year due to declining enrollment.

Alum Rock Union School District

This local educational authority manages the shuttered campus and is evaluating the future use of the district's vacant properties.

The details

Vandals accessed the campus by climbing fences, causing significant destruction that included broken glass, open manholes, and the removal of HVAC systems and electrical wiring. Police also recovered bullets within one of the classrooms during their inspection of the property.

The school experienced an initial incident of vandalism in August 2025.
The Alum Rock Union School District closed eight schools during 2025.

Legal Context

This vandalism follows a pattern set by the Alum Rock Union School District's 2025 school closure program, which resulted in eight facilities being left vacant. These incidents highlight the legal and security challenges local districts face when managing surplus property within city limits.

The school board is currently discussing plans to improve security for the shuttered campus, which may impact local neighborhood traffic and surveillance measures. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity observed near the vacant school grounds to local authorities.

The takeaway

Vacant school properties remain high-risk targets for theft and destruction during periods of district consolidation. Keeping unused buildings secure requires active oversight and investment until permanent reuse or sale plans are finalized by local districts.