Graffiti artists are criminals that need to be prosecuted
By Lethbridge Herald on September 20, 2024.
Editor:
So the City wants to spend $51,000 on graffiti cleanup. This is the wrong approach to solving one of the perpetual problems of downtown crime and deterrence.
Continuous cleaning of the graffiti only gives the criminals a clean slate to continue with their unwanted bane. And they are criminals.
Vandalism and desecration of private and public property is a crime and should be treated as such. The money could be more wisely spent on enforcement, security and cameras.
Visit the dollar and hardware stores where most of the paint is purchased. Surveillance cameras can identify the perpetrators. Subsequently prosecute with fines or incarceration. And have these unwanted criminals clean their unsightly art. Citizens expect the council to enforce the law.
They are ultimately accountable for what steps are or are not taken. Council appears to be somewhat disingenuous as well as cynical to the problem. Listen to the citizens.
Stan Adamus
Lethbridge
9-8
while graffiti can be artful, it is only acceptable where it is wanted by the owner of the surfaces in question. otherwise, indeed, it is not acceptable. thus, either those behaving criminally are responsible for the clean up, literally or via the cost for cleaning, and, or, they are held criminally liable.
in terms of vandalism, however, i do not think the city pays for residential clean ups.thus, the city should not be paying for businesses damaged.