The Art of Crime

Graffiti- is it art or vandalism? Some arue that graffiti is art and way of expression, yet most would argue that graffiti is a major problem in neighborhoods today. Graffiti is defined as any type of public markings done without the property owner's consent, that can appear in simple words to elaborate wall paintings. In the community of Northridge the issue over graffiti is growing rapidly, due to the spread of the graffiti from large areas to small scale towns such as Northridge. Usually graffiti is not an isolated

problem and is often related to other crime problems such as: gangs and gang violence- gang graffiti conveys threats and identifies turf boundaries; and shoplifting of materials needed for graffiti, such as spray paint and markers. Operation Clean Sweep is a graffiti hot line through which residents can report graffiti around their community.

So if you see any graffiti around your home, school, or workplace make sure you call 1-800-661- CITY (2489). When calling make sure you note the details of the graffiti including the street, the cross street, the surface, and the color.