Hopefully, they will use a MUCH sturdier gate after this event.
Agreed. In the photos of it where it was broken the gate appeared to be made of heavier material, probably wrought iron. This flimsy gate looks like it just there for decoration. -Explains how it was easily bent in half. Still, the sign posted should be all that is needed to keep reprobates from entering under usual circumstances. The demonstrations, protests and rampant vandalism that is going on presently is not a normal thing and hopefully not going to be something that becomes the norm.
The sidewalks in this community are visible in this photo. Even though everything inside the gates is likely considered private property, it may make a legal difference whether the protesters were on the McCloskey's actual property, as in on the lawn or walkway to their door. In a non gated community, the sidewalk and parking strip are public property even though the home owner is usually responsible for them. It's crazy but if someone trips on the public sidewalk around your property, you are liable. Depending on city ordinances, the home owner is bears the cost to repair and maintain the sidewalk and parking strip, if there is one.
I have a 'no solicitors' sign posted near the front door in a spot were it would be hard not to notice it. Does this stop solicitors from ringing my door bell? Hell no. They do it all the time. If I open the door and the person standing there is trying to sell me something I'll sarcastically ask them if they can read and point to the sign. I doubt they care. My front door has 5 large opaque glass panels in it. I chose this because it lets in daylight while maintaining my privacy. Only problem is, I cannot see who is on the outside of the door. I've thought about installing a camera. That way if it is someone I don't know, I have the option of not opening the door to find this out. We have 3 dogs who go crazy whenever someone walks up to the house, barking even more so if the person rings the bell or knocks. Open the door and the dogs rush out to greet them. Luckily our dogs are friendly and haven't bitten anyone yet.