Get tough on graffiti | The Salt Lake Tribune

This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Kudos to Zachary Jacob for stating that more laws do not equate to less crime ("Graffiti rules," Forum, April 3).

The answer for controlling graffiti is simple: Mandate a $10,000 fine. Provide a confidential reward for information leading to conviction.

If the guilty person cannot pay, mandate a lengthy time of community service removing graffiti. If unable to comply, jail will suffice.

I am tired of seeing graffiti pop up in my neighborhood and of covering it over to maintain the dignity and value of my property. It's time for a law with teeth.

Punishing stores that sell paint and markers is not the answer. More laws that will be ignored is not the answer.

If no fine is ever paid because it prompts the reduction or elimination of future graffiti, we all win. The point is not the fine, but the deterrent.

Lon Wray

West Valley City