ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg Police want the public's help locating the suspect, or suspects, who vandalized dozens of parking meters.
This is the third time in the past two weeks the meters have been vandalized. According to police, the meters were sprayed with foam sealant.
"This is a waste of time, resources and taxpayer money. It might seem like a silly prank, but this is no laughing matter," said Sandra Bentil with St. Petersburg Police.
According to police, a total of 74 meters have been damaged causing thousands of dollars in damage.
Police say the first incident happened on Oct. 27 in the 600 block of Central Avenue There were a total of 27 meters damaged.
The second on Nov. 1 in the 400 block of Central Avenue damaged 26 more meters. And overnight on Tuesday, police say another 21 were damaged.
"This is nuts. What's the purpose to cause damage like that? It's a complete waste," said John Ryan who noticed the damage meters.
Police said the city cannot enforce parking where the meters are not working. The person or people responsible for the damage could be charged with a felony.
"We're asking business and private citizens, residents, if you have video of these areas hit to please share it with us. If you saw something even if it was just people hanging out by a meter and it just looked a little odd or if you saw this happening, we ask that you please give us a call," said Bentil.
If you have any information, please call 727-893-7790 or text SPPD plus your tip to TIP411.
