Federal funding cuts of $2.1 million have forced the Bridgeport Housing Authority to eliminate security at its largest public housing development, sparking a dangerous rise in vandalism, Executive Director Jillian Baldwin said Wednesday.

Baldwin said vandals disabled senior-access elevators and destroyed newly installed community Wi-Fi equipment installed thanks to a $700,000 grant acquired by Bridgeport Public Schools.

Local residents, including 82-year-old Axsie Worrell, express deep fear for their personal safety following the removal of security personnel.

In response, Sen. Richard Blumenthal has condemned the funding cuts and pledged to fight for the restoration of the housing authority's budget.