Three young offenders were observed tagging by a city bylaw enforcement officer this month and have been fined.
“The city’s bylaw enforcement officer was out on another call and observed the three underage males heading for a known graffiti area,” said clerk Peter Wipper, in a press release. “When he followed, all three were observed actively tagging a well-marked retaining wall adjacent to a public area. The quick-thinking officer got photos and videos of the taggers and called the RCMP.”
Police attended the scene, apprehended all three, and $1,500 in fines have been issued.
The tagging occurred on private property along the South Island Highway, and the city is working with the property owner to have the graffiti removed.
“With the milder weather, we have seen a recent spike in graffiti files that have been keeping both RCMP and bylaw officers busy,” Wipper adds.
“Graffiti and tagging offences are always of concern to the police, and the Campbell River detachment works closely with our partner agencies to follow up on and coordinate information gathered on these types of offence,” said Staff Sergeant Troy Beauregard. “There is zero tolerance for tagging and accordingly, as in this instance, offenders will face charges.”
People who witness tagging are encouraged to contact Crimestoppers, RCMP, Bylaw officials with details.
Campbell River Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-8477 or campbellriver.crimestoppersweb.com.
Campbell River RCMP detachment: 250-286-6221.
City of Campbell River Bylaw department: 250-286-5776.