Robert Chacon
Police arrested two teenagers suspected of a vandalism spree last
week that caused about $10,000 in damage to homes and businesses.
The two Crescenta Valley High School students were arrested Monday
on suspicion of felony vandalism, one at the school, the other at a
girlfriend's house in Sunland, Crescenta Valley Sheriff's Det.
Richard Lutz said.
The boys allegedly spray painted "Latin Kings" and their tagging
names in gold paint on at least nine homes and businesses, Lutz said.
"They just started, and it's already over," Lutz said of the new
tagging group the teens were allegedly promoting. "They stuck out
like a sore thumb."
Deputies were led to the two after an informant tipped off school
resource officer Deputy Roger Burt at Crescenta Valley High School.
The teens confessed when questioned by detectives, Lutz said.
They are due to appear June 6 in Pasadena Juvenile Court and could
face a fine and time in a crime-diversion program, he said.
Home and business owners were relieved at news of the arrests,
though they still face hundreds of dollars in costs to cover up the
graffiti.
"We have a good business, and we try to keep the place clean and
nice looking," said Ray Russel, manager of the CV Mini Storage on
Cloud Avenue that was apparently targeted in the spree. "This is
disturbing."
Employees have covered up the graffiti temporarily, but to match
the color of the defaced surface with other walls, he will have to
hire a professional painter for at least $300, Russel said.
"That takes money right out of our pocket," he said. "They should
have to work to get rid of their mess. Maybe then they will learn
some respect and that people work hard for their money."
