UPDATE: Newton Park playground closed until further notice, park officials release statement

UPDATE: Newton Park officials released a statement Tuesday afternoon expressing appreciation for the community's support following the temporary closure announcement for the playground.

The park itself will remain fully open, officials say, while the playground remains closed.

Officials' statement reads in part, "Additional long-term measures are actively being explored to address recent issues, repair damages, strengthen safety efforts, and improve the overall environment for the families and children who use the playground appropriately. While several safety measures are already in place, including a multi-camera security system, there is also recognition that prevention efforts must continue to evolve moving forward. Although these changes will take time, conversations and planning are already taking place behind the scenes."

You can read the full statement below:

ORIGINAL STORY: LAKEVILLE, Ind. -- Newton Park announces their playground's indefinite closure on social media Monday afternoon. 

Officials say that the closure of the playground is due to unacceptable behavior including, bullying, violence, and destruction of the property.  

The playground will remain closed indefinitely until the issues can be properly addressed and appropriate measures are put in place. 

You can read the full statement below:

"It is with extreme disappointment that we announce the playground at Newton Park is CLOSED until further notice. This decision was not made lightly.

Due to ongoing issues involving unacceptable behavior, we can no longer provide the safe, family-friendly environment our community deserves. Bullying, violence, destruction of property, and blatant disregard for rules will NOT be tolerated at our facility.

It is incredibly unfortunate that the actions of a few have now affected the many families
and children who respect the park, follow the rules, and simply come here to enjoy time
together.

Our number one priority is the safety of our guests and families. Until these issues can be properly addressed and appropriate measures can be put into place, the playground will remain closed.

We sincerely apologize to the many good families impacted by this decision and thank those who continue to support and respect our park."