The repair bills continue to grow at Barrington Cove Apartments.

For more than a month, residents' vehicles parked outside the apartment complex have been targeted by one or more vandals. The vehicles have been keyed or gouged over and over again, resulting in thousands of dollars worth of damage. 

Christina Machado has lived at Barrington Cove Apartments for about two years. She said her vehicle has been hit twice by vandals. The initial damage took place on April 18, and after the vehicle was repaired it was damaged again, said Ms. Machado.

"This is not just a scratch. This is into the metal," said Ms. Machado. "This has been grinding on for over a month here."

Ms. Machado and other tenants have grown frustrated with the situation. Despite increased police patrols and newly-installed security cameras, the vandalism has continued. 

"I'm starting to hate it here," said Ms. Machado, who planned to speak about the problem at Monday night's town council meeting. "I have real fear."

Ms. Machado said there are about 45 vehicles parked outside Barrington Cove Apartments, and most of them have already suffered damage. Some vehicles have been vandalized twice, and some have even been hit three times in the last month.

Ms. Machado estimated the total damage at more than $100,000, and maybe as much as $150,000. 

"This is awful," she said. "We have to pay the deductible each time. We've got to rent a car. Now we have to think 'Should we leave here or just move?'"

Another resident who has lived at Barrington Cove Apartments for the last five years said the building management has not done enough to deter the vandalism. The resident — she requested that her name not be published — said not a single sign has been posted.

The resident said it appeared that most of the vandalism was taking place in the parking lot area closest to the apartment building. 

Barrington Police have increased patrols in the area and are asking anyone with more information to call 437-3930. Police have not named any suspects, but indicated that the vandalism may be the work of kids who are coming off the bike path or possibly a disgruntled tenant. Officials said the vandalism has not spread to other parts of Bay Springs.