| Graffiti artists face hefty fines |
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Updated 31 March 2004, 09.32
Graffiti artists and noisy neighbours better watch out - they could be getting hefty fines under new powers which came into force this week. Graffiti artists are being issued with £50 fines, with the amount rising to £100 for noisy neighbours, who could also see their equipment confiscated. The new rules also aim to prevent young graffiti artists from buying the spray paint they use to vandalise buildings. Shopkeepers who sell the paint to under-16s will be fined up to £2,500. Under the new rules, security guards have been given police-style powers in a bid to stamp out bad behaviour on the streets. Harassment They can now hand out £80 fines to anyone "causing alarm, harassment or distress" or throwing fireworks. Fines of £40 will be given to people who buy alcohol for under-18s and anyone who trespasses on railway tracks or throws stones at trains. |