Beer Can Island driftwood marked with graffiti removed by chainsaw

LONGBOAT KEY -- Although workers from the town of Longboat Key were still trying to remove graffiti that marred iconic driftwood on Beer Can Island, some of the more badly damaged pieces were removed with chainsaws Thursday.

"It's a beautiful place that has been in that natural state for decades. Why anyone would want to deface it is beyond me," said Town Manager David Bullock, confirming the decision to remove some of the more extensively damaged pieces.

"There have been some that we decided we needed to clean up."

Longboat Key police continue to pursue the investigation of suspects in the case, Longboat Key Police Chief Peter Cumming said.

"If possible, we're trying to remove the graffiti, but some of it is too widespread," Cumming said.

The problem of painting graffiti on the driftwood has grown in recent months, Bradenton resident Fran Plumley told the Herald this week.

After seeing new graffiti on Beer Can Island driftwood Sunday, Plumley posted photos to Facebook showing slogans like "Feel the Bern," and "Bernie!" as well as swirls, hearts and a peace sign.

Cumming has increased police presence in the area, and is pursuing misdemeanor charges against the graffiti artists.

Cumming told the Herald on Wednesday investigators have spoken with a suspect in the graffiti on Beer Can Island.

This story was originally published April 7, 2016 at 11:41 PM with the headline "Beer Can Island driftwood marked with graffiti removed by chainsaw ."