HENDERSON, NV (FOX5) -
There are fewer cars parked on Palo Verde Street in Henderson because residents aren't taking any more chances. Between the graffiti and smashed windows, the problems are adding up.
"It's just ridiculous," said one resident who did not want to be identified.
On Palo Verde, you will find cars vandalized, keyed and tagged with spray-paint. It's enough to get the neighbors fired up.
"They're just spraying the graffiti all over the place," said resident Daniel Bautista, who got up for work 10 days ago to find that his white car had become a fresh piece of territory, with symbols and wording that he can't understand.
"I feel like I want to move instead of confronting these individuals because they can retaliate," he said.
Bautista has tried, unsuccessfully, to remove the paint. Who exactly is behind this mischief is unclear. A Henderson police spokesman told FOX5 the department hasn't heard of this rash of vandalism.
The resident who wished to remain anonymous said she filed a police report, as the damage to her vehicles has totaled $1,150.
"It's pretty frustrating because we can't get anybody caught because they're quick and they're slick like that."
Much of the vandalism has happened over the past six months, but has made a stronger presence over the past two weeks. It's not uncommon to see graffiti splashed on walls and vacant homes in this area, but now it has become personal.
"My truck has been keyed all the way around. I've had a flat time on my jeep," the resident explained.
Now, some homeowners are leaving their cars in parking lots or other neighborhoods just to avoid seeing the ugly graffiti.
"Nobody can afford this the way the economy is now. I can't afford it with gas prices and working and two kids," said the unidentified resident.
Residents who spoke with FOX5 said they would like to see more police patrolling the area. They're afraid the vandals have nothing to lose and will keep going until they're caught.
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A vehicle on Palo Verde Street bears an attempt to remove the graffiti
One resident has endured scratch marks, flat tires, and broken windows
A Palo Verde Street resident holds pieces of broken glass from her car window
