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Planned Response to Juvenile Graffiti Vandalism

NCJ Number
151701
Author(s)
J S McMurray
Date Published
1994
Length
153 pages
Annotation
This futures study examines types of programs California police agencies should consider in response to juvenile graffiti vandalism by the year 2004.
Abstract
The study panel identified three trends that are likely to increase by the year 2004. These included the costs of police efforts to eliminate tagging (graffiti "wars" fought between juvenile groups who gain prestige by spray-painting their group name around the community), the population of 15- to 24-year-olds in California, and the migration of that age group to the Los Angeles area. In addition, several high probability events were incorporated into the analysis: increased penalties for graffiti and vandalism, State law that parents are responsible for cleaning up graffiti, and passage of legislation requiring cleanup within 24 hours. The normative scenario developed through the cross-analysis recommended implementation of a modified community impact team combined with a front-end intervention program. This study presents strategic and transition management plans designed to achieve that scenario. 6 charts, 22 notes, 24 references, and 5 appendixes