(St. John’s, NL), March 22, 2023 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) have made an arrest, and continue an investigation, related to graffiti on public and private property in St. John’s.

In recent weeks, the RNC has received increased reports of property damage related to graffiti on public and private property in St. John’s, specifically the downtown area of the city. Engaging with community stakeholders, the RNC has launched an investigation in to the issue.

On March 18, 2023, at approximately 11:25 pm, officers descended on an area of downtown St. John’s following information of graffiti ‘tagging’ in progress. Multiple businesses and private properties in the downtown area had sustained graffiti damage. Investigators believe multiple individuals were involved in the incident.

At this stage in the investigation, one 17-year-old male from Mount Pearl has been arrested and charged with property damage. The accused was released from custody to appear in court on a later date.

The investigation remains active, and officers are seeking any information to assist in identifying any individuals engaging in this criminal activity. Graffiti has resulted in financial loss for small business owners, private property owners, and city taxpayers, as all parties work to ensure their properties are free from the damage caused by graffiti.

The RNC request that anyone with information to assist contact the RNC at 729-8000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You can now provide information anonymously on the NL Crime Stoppers Website at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app #SayItHere.

**See attached photographs of some of the damage and seized property.

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File # 23-13628

Cst. James. C. Cadigan  #775
Media Relations & Public Communication
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca