A Barrington Police officer was on patrol early Sunday morning, July 2, when he spotted a boy riding a bicycle near the intersection of Maple Avenue and Cottage Street.

The officer paused — it was 2 a.m. and the boy was wearing a backpack — and decided to see what the boy was up to.

The 13-year-old boy allegedly told the officer he had been hungry and rode his bike to the Shell gas station for some snacks. The officer then asked the boy what was in his backpack. 

Police said a search of the bag revealed a can of spray paint and an iPad. The officer also allegedly found a knife in the boy’s possession and a vape pen with a THC cartridge tucked into his waistband.

The officer questioned the boy about the spray paint. Police said the boy later admitted to spray-painting a utility pole and a sign located across the street from the high school. 

Police then charged the boy with possession of a schedule I to V controlled substance-first offense, weapons other than firearms prohibited, and two counts of vandalism. Police also issued the boy two citations: bicycle operation with a helmet-15 years old or younger, and bicycle lamps and other equipment required. 

Police said the boy was not wearing a bike helmet and did not have a light on his bike. 

Barrington Police Chief Michael Correia said the department has been investigating some recent vandalism incidents in town involving spray paint.

“We’re looking into it,” he said.