Graffiti Problem

I do believe the only way to get rid of the graffiti problem (and perhaps some others) is to quit using different Band-Aids to stop the hemorrhaging. Make wanton vandalism a felony like driving under the influence and raise significantly the fines/public service duty of those caught to years instead of months. Go after the parent or legal guardian of the juveniles too. You make the irresponsible responsible and you will get the desired result. Don’t even think of banning spray paint from the stores, less you create a new kind of black market for it from the regions beyond!

The monies collected in real fines (how about $5,000 for a first offense) and/or lengthy public service time meted out to the convicted should be able to supply enough paint and manpower to clean up the whole county. Take the costs off of the victims, i.e., the property owner and taxpayers. Start using a “real tool” on all vandals, taggers and gang members, for their anti-social acts.

JIM PETROPULOS, Wilmington