City to impose stiffer penalties for graffiti writing

By Debra Mayeux, The Daily Times
Oct 13, 2005, 11:41 pm

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FARMINGTON — The Farmington City Council adopted a resolution Tuesday amending its graffiti ordinance.
The measure will increase the mandatory penalties for those convicted of graffiti-related crimes in the city.
“This is something I brought forward,” Councilor Tommy Roberts said. “Graffiti seems to be worsening. We needed to send a message that they will be facing mandatory consequences for tagging.”
Those mandatory penalties will include 30 days in jail, 60 hours of community service, a fine of $500, a $75 fee to be paid to the City of Farmington graffiti education and removal fund, and restitution to the property owner.
City Attorney Jay Burnham, who drafted the resolution, said state statutes allow the city to impose jail time of up to 90 days. He, however, set mandatory sentencing at 30 days, so the mandatory 60 hours of community service could be imposed.
Burnham added the penalties will only be for adult offenders because children are punished under the state’s children’s code.
“That makes a difference to me. I thought this was harsh for kids,” Councilor George Sharpe said. “Once they’re 18, they’re not just out there (goofing) around.”
The new ordinance will go into effect five days after notice of its adoption is published.