Vandals Target Highland High School Music Equipment

The Pocatello Police Department is investigating after significant damage was discovered at a local church.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Property Crime

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a heavy brick building facade, evoking institutional gravity and civic disruption. — Pocatello police are investigating a vandalism incident at Calvary Chapel that resulted in significant damage to Highland High School's music program equipment. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Vandals broke into Calvary Chapel in Pocatello on Monday night, causing an estimated $10,000 in damage to Highland High School music equipment. Authorities are now investigating the incident, which included the destruction of musical instruments and electronics.

Why it matters

The destruction significantly disrupts the music program at Highland High School, which utilizes the church space. The investigation into the incident, which featured racist graffiti, remains active.

The Pocatello Police Department is investigating the vandalism under report number 26-P23228. Anyone with information is asked to contact the department at 208-234-6100.

The players

Pocatello Police Department

This is the municipal law enforcement agency responsible for investigating criminal activity and maintaining public safety within the city of Pocatello.

Highland High School

This is a public educational institution in Pocatello that serves the local student population and operates a music department.

Calvary Chapel

This is a local church in Pocatello that provides space for school activities and community gatherings.

The details

The suspects broke various items, including an electric piano, several guitars, television sets, and computer equipment. They further vandalized the property by pouring oil on the sound system and leaving racist vulgarity on the floor and soundboard.

Vandalism occurred at Calvary Chapel on Monday night, October 19, 2026.
Police received the report of the incident at 7 p.m. Monday, October 19, 2026.
Classes continued as scheduled at the church on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.

Legal Context

This incident follows a pattern established by the 2024 vandalism of the Pocatello public library, where municipal property was targeted by unknown actors. Local authorities typically prosecute such property crimes under state statutes governing malicious injury to property.

Residents should remain alert to any suspicious activity near local institutions and report concerns to the police department. Businesses and schools in the area may implement increased security measures to prevent future damage to property.

The takeaway

The community is encouraged to assist investigators by providing any relevant information regarding the incident at Calvary Chapel. Protecting public assets and school property remains a primary focus for local law enforcement moving forward.