BREA : Graffiti Law Given Preliminary OK

In an effort to curb the spread of graffiti, City Council members this week gave preliminary approval to an ordinance prohibiting minors from possessing spray cans, glass cutters and other devices used in vandalism.

“This will curtail those who are on the edge, looking for the thrill of the momentary high” of spreading graffiti, Brea Police Lt. William C. Lentini said.

He said 30 days after the ordinance receives final approval, which is expected at the July 20 council meeting, officers will have the authority to detain and search juveniles who are thought to be carrying graffiti-creating devices. If such items are found, police can seize the goods, cite the minors and call their parents.

To further deter graffiti vandalism, commonly known as tagging, city officials said stores that sell spray paint and marking pens will be required to keep the items behind locked display cases.

Lentini said the ordinance is supported by the Brea Chamber of Commerce, police and several community groups.

The ordinance also spells out penalties for those convicted of tagging as well as for the parents of minors who are graffiti vandals.

Those caught spray-painting or etching graffiti will face a penalty of serving up to 200 hours of community service, possible jail time and revocation of driver’s licenses. Parents of young taggers will be liable for graffiti removal costs of up to $10,000.

“We’re hoping to send the message, ‘Don’t come here because you will pay a severe price,’ ” Lentini said.

Under the new measure, the city will also encourage civic groups and residents to not only call police when they see taggers vandalizing property but to take photographs and even videotape the crime.