Vandals tear down controversial fence

MOBILE, Ala. - A controversial fence continues to divide a neighborhood, even after it was torn down by vandals.

Less than two days after vandals tore down the decorated wire fence on Karen Lathan's property, the family has already started to rebuild.

"I enjoy doing my thing. That's my thing. This is what I do," Lathan said.

What Lathan does is decorates her yard with items that have caused a stir in the Cypress Shores community.

The old fence was decorated with old tires, toilets, and other controversial items. Neighbors had complained to the city about the fence they consider trash.

The Lathan's promised to rebuild the fence, but the neighbors probably didn't expect it to happen so quickly, nor did they expect them to use sheets of tin.

"We spoke to Mayor Jones today, Al Stokes, and Urban Development," a neighbor said.

Robert Doutt says neighbors aren't giving up the fight. While a city inspector labeled the old fence creative art, Doutt believes the new one is illegal.

"Now she's build a metal fence that's made of tin. Not only is it a violation, it is also a safety hazard," Doutt said.

But Lathan has just one message for her neighbors.

"Leave me alone. They really just need to leave me alone."

Stephen Ross lives right across from the fence. He said he videotaped Lathan Monday morning, after she shouted at his family from across the street.

He showed FOX10 News reporter Renee Dials the video on his camera.

"See, look at her peeking around the fence, taking pictures," Ross said.

"But you're taking picture's of her, and she taking pictures of you."

"Yeah, but she wants to be left alone," Ross said.

It's a battle that's not likely to end soon.

A city official said an inspector was sent out to check out the new fence after getting calls from angry neighbors. The city expects a ruling within 72 hours.