The Bloomington police department is investigating after a Parking Enforcement Officer discovered early Wednesday morning that 125 parking meters on the Monroe County Courthouse Square and in downtown Bloomington had been intentionally damaged, according to a press release from BPD Capt., Ryan Pedigo.
The Bloomingtonian was out of town earlier today working on a photography assignment, but discovered pink and green paint, and remnants of expanding foam on meters while walking around the entire square shortly after 5 p.m. The meters seemed to be working.
However, in the press release, the police department says anybody parking at a non-working damaged meter will not be ticketed, and that those wishing to pay should use the ParkMobile phone app. The press release states that replacement parts have been ordered and are being via overnight delivery so any still damaged meters can be repaired. The damage to the meters is estimated to be 5,000-dollars. A photo released by the police show the foam in the coin deposit slot on a meter painted pink.
The police are reviewing surveillance footage from downtown businesses in an effort to identify suspects, and encourage anybody with information to contact Detective Jon Muscato at (812)349-3326.
