What is Graffiti Vandalism

 If you don’t own the property or have permission from the owner, graffiti is vandalism.

Graffiti vandalism is criminal damage to someone else’s property.

Graffiti is a costly social problem, affects everyone and is often a “gateway crime” leading to more serious or dangerous crimes.

Vandals use graffiti to self-promote and in doing so create victims. Vandals think the more they vandalize the more respect they’ll gain from other vandals. Shoplifting and trespassing add to their status with other vandals. 

The faster graffiti is removed the less likely it will become a reoccurring problem, but abatement is only one part of the solution. Resources for diversionary programs and activities to replace the “physical buzz or high” of graffiti and the negative self-promotion are needed