Local youth apprehended following graffiti incidents

Marshalltown,IA,USA

By KEN BLACK

A Marshalltown youth was arrested this week in connection with two gang graffiti incidents, which took place in late July.

Benjamin Cuellar Jr., 14, of 11 1/2 E. State St., was charged with two counts of criminal mischief in the fifth degree, which are simple misdemeanors. He was referred to juvenile court services and released to his family.

According to Detective James Ulin, the two places of business victimized in the incident were the post office and Iowa Lumber. Ulin said the investigation led to the youth after looking at the markings and clues left in the writing.

He noted there are approximately a dozen gangs in town and a press release indicated that more individuals could have participated in the offense.

Victims of graffiti are encouraged to report the crime by calling the Marshalltown Police Department at 754-5725.