Urban Blight: Graffiti

Most graffiti is gang-related, sprayed on by would-be gang members and referred to as “tagging.” It is recognizable by its altered letters and odd messages.

Getting rid of it is important – left un-checked, it becomes a challenge to other gang-members and can lead to increased crime and violence.

Don’t stop or confront taggers as they work in groups between 2 and 10 people, some carry knives or guns.

Another form of tagging is window etching. Recently, window-etching taggers have resurfaced. If you witness anyone writing on glass, contact the owner and a police officer immediately. The acid takes time to scar the window; if neutralized in time, severe damage can be prevented.

If you witness tagging in progress, call 911. Otherwise, take a picture of the tag and email to Officer John Graham at jagraham@sd.sandiego.gov together with the location of the tag and when it appeared.

If the tag appears on public property, call Clean & Safe at 234-8900. If you are unable to take a photograph of the tag, ask the dispatcher to notify a beat officer to take a photograph before the maintenance personnel removes the tag.