New graffiti law

7/9/2007 12:41 PM
By: Staff



BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- A new law will crack down on vandalism in Binghamton. The city passed graffiti legislation that calls for harsher punishments.

Fines for a misdemeanor charge will range from $300 to $750. Those found guilty will also be responsible for cleaning up the graffiti.

If the vandal is a minor, parents will be held responsible. City officials felt they needed to stop graffiti before it caused an even bigger problem.

Matthew Ryan, Binghamton Mayor said, "The presence of graffiti affects the health of neighborhoods. It creates the perception of neglect that can lead to other instances of neighborhood deterioration."

"It's a word, a blurb, an acronym, even a drawing sometimes and they write it as many times as they can and as many places as possible just to spread their own popularity," said Michelle Schleider, Graffiti Abatement Team Leader


More cameras will also be placed around the city to help keep watch.