UK Shiny - Specialist Cleaning & Graffiti Removal

FACTORS TO CONSIDER ON GRAFFITI & ITS REMOVAL

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Is graffiti a crime?

Criminal vandalism is defined in law as 'intentionally or recklessly destroying or damaging any property belonging to another without lawful excuse' [Criminal Damage Act 1971]. Graffiti normally involves committing multiple criminal and civil offences as well as vandalism e.g. trespass or breach of environmental laws. It may be criminal because of it is racially, sexually or otherwise offensive and can constitue a legal nusiance.

Whilst offenders can be tackled from a variety of directions prosecutions are difficult because 1) offenders need first to be caught , and 2) most offenders (90%) are minors with protected legal status which generally limits the effectiveness of any legal action.

Research suggests that minors who habitually tag property will recognise their actions as criminal. However, there are various reasons that motivate them.

	*What can be done against purpotrators ?*
	The Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003 creates the ability to issue penalty notices for graffiti or fly-posting with effect from 31March 2004. Penalty notices of £50 for graffiti or fly-posting activity can be issued by an authorised officer of the local authority in whose area the offence has been committed such as community support officers (CSO). The Department of Food and Rural affairs (DEFRA) will from time to time issue further guidance CSO powers.
	*What should be done when graffiti is found?*
	Call your local police station to find out about the local graffiti detective or a patrol officer. They may find it help full for you take photos of the tags as they may identify individuals. It is often difficult for the police to gain sufficient evidence to prosecute graffiti offenders. Check with local businesses whether CCTV cameras have captured offences.
	What is the 'Broken Window' theory?
	It is important that graffiti is cleaned off as quickly as possible after reporting it to the police. The 'broken windows' theory, developed in the United States, proposes that if a broken window is left and not repaired, other windows will soon be broken. If left, a broken window signals to both offenders and residents is that no one cares. Consequently offenders are not deterred from committing similar acts again, and a perceived rise in crime becomes a reality. This applies to graffiti where once it has appeared, it attacks more graffiti and other anti-social behaviors.
	What is the 'Broken Window' theory?
	It is important that graffiti is cleaned off as quickly as possible after reporting it to the police. The 'broken windows' theory, developed in the United States, proposes that if a broken window is left and not repaired, other windows will soon be broken. If left, a broken window signals to both offenders and residents is that no one cares. Consequently offenders are not deterred from committing similar acts again, and a perceived rise in crime becomes a reality. This applies to graffiti where once it has appeared, it attacks more graffiti and other anti-social behaviors.
	What are sacraficial coatings?
	Sacraficial coatings are clear wax-type or silicone based compounds that are typically applied to areas suffering continuous defacement. Advantages: The coatings have minimim impact on the appearance of the substrate, are environmentally friendly and allow surfaces to breath. Graffiti can be removed using chemicals or hot water. Ideal for walls, monuments, walls and surfaces easily damaged by graffiti. Disadvantages: The affected area must be re-coated following the removal of graffiti.

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