Graffiti Vandalism
Graffiti is not simply a maintenance problem, but a complex social problem as well. Most graffiti vandalism is caused by minors in the late-night or early morning hours. Some graffiti is the product of gang activity, and is used to identify territories, indicate associations or conflicts between gang members, or promote the sale of illegal drugs.
The vast majority of the increase in graffiti vandalism is the result of "tagging," committed by juvenile vandals with the primary objective being peer recognition. Taggers are not necessarily gang members, and come from all neighborhoods of the city.
The following procedures are suggested to store managers to help combat this problem:
- Educate your staff to the state and local legislation banning the sale of spray paint to minors, and make them aware of the frequent shoplifting of spray paint, markers, and etching tools.
- Post signs at the paint display area stating the penalties for illegal sale to minors, and for graffiti vandalism.
- In the check-out area post signs listing the acceptable proof-of-age for all spray paint purchasers.
- Assure that spray paint cans and other potential tools (indelible markers, etc.) are in clear view of store personnel or otherwise protected from theft.
- Remove any graffiti on your property immediately!
- Make sure your child is not a graffiti vandal.
- Report it!
- Assist your neighbors if they need your help.
- Work with the Police Department if you know of someone guilty of graffiti vandalism.
- DO NOT attempt to apprehend the suspect.
- Do get a good description of the suspect(s) and vehicle(s) involved, and the location.
- Call (619) 531-2000 to have a police officer come to your house and take a report (if the suspects are seen, known, or if there is a witness.)
- If you have no information pertinent to the crime, you still must report it. Call the Telephone Report Unit at (619) 531-2990, or call your nearest SDPD Area Command. Take photos of the graffiti vandalism for future prosecution.
- Use matching paint so you don't leave a "canvas" for them.
- Keep paint readily available.
- Use M.E.K. (Methyl Ethyl Ketone) on glass, or previously painted metal surfaces.
- Use Graffiti Remover on glass, unpainted metal surfaces, or brick or block walls (you must scrub with soap and water, too) and always wear rubber gloves.
- Graffiti removed promptly does not discourage future graffiti.
- Paint or marker pen dye stains on hands, under the fingernails, or on clothes.
- Bulky military jacket, pull-over or zip-up with a hood helps conceal spray cans and markers.
- Blood-shot eyes from being out all night tagging and being exposed to dangerous toxic fumes from the markers and paint.
- Tag names might be written on the underside of the bill of a sports cap, visor, or on notebooks and other possessions.
- A backpack to hide spray cans.
- Baggy clothes with deep pockets to hide spray cans.
- Spray paint on sneakers or shoes.
The City of San Diego Graffiti Control Program provides more information on what you can do to prevent graffiti vandalism.
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