The Merced County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a spate of vandalism in Hilmar that caused thousands of dollars in damage.

The sheriff’s department suspects the vandalism was committed by a group of teenagers because all the damage was done at residences where Hilmar High School students live, said sheriff spokesman Deputy Tom MacKenzie.

The sheriff’s department has taken at least six reports of vandalism to houses and vehicle. All the vandalism was located at homes within a half-mile of one another and occurred sometime between 11:30 p.m. Wednesday and 3:30 a.m. Thursday, MacKenzie said.

Houses and vehicles on Dover Drive, American Avenue, First Street and Ellington Avenue were damaged.

In most of the reports sexual profanity was spray-painted on the vehicles and homes, MacKenzie said.

In one incident the culprits poured mayonnaise, mustard, jalapenos and other condiments on and inside a vehicle and then threw an empty bottle through a house window.

MacKenzie said the sheriff’s department is investigating leads and that the perpetrators could be facing several felony charges, given the amount of damage.

Anyone with information about the vandalism is asked to contact the sheriff’s department at 385-7445.

To contact Sabra Stafford, e-mail sstafford@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2002.