Vandalism Spree in Talent and Phoenix is Frustrating Residents

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore — Bullets through the door of a business, slashed tires and broken fences are some of the increasing acts of vandalism frustrating residents of Talent and Phoenix, Oregon.

A Talent police spokesman said his department was aware of the situation and although no complaints by the public have been reported to the police, they have confirmed that they are remaining vigilant about the situation.

Meanwhile, residents of the two Oregon cities are becoming increasingly frustrated and concerned about the needless property damage.

The manager of a local Phoenix business, James Cranford said a pellet or BB gun was used recently to shatter the front door of the premises at Ewing, an irrigation, landscaping, and outdoor supply chain.

Cranford said the business premises had to be rebuilt after burning down in the 2020 wildfires, adding that it will be expensive to replace the damage caused by this unnecessary act of vandalism.

Finger of Blame Pointed at Children

Cranford is not blaming the homeless communities for these acts, but instead is pointing the finger of blame at children. He says the vandalism spree ‘feels different….kids out vandalizing stuff.’

Replacing the shattered door will cost Ewing $600, which Cranford describes as a burden compounding its ongoing recovery from the devastating 2020 Alameda fires.

On the same night that Ewing was targeted by vandals, a bus stop opposite the outdoor outlet was damaged.

Nextdoor, a neighborhood app, is becoming increasingly popular among residents of the two cities to share the latest updates about the vandalism spree. They relate stories about slashed tires, damaged fences and other minor troubling acts.