Alderman takes another shot at wiping out graffiti
St. Louis Alderman Donna Baringer is trying once again to draw-up tougher laws against graffiti.
Baringer has authored a bill that would prohibit anyone under 18 from purchasing a permanent marker, spray paint container or paint stick unless they are accompanied by an adult.
The bill requires anyone buying three or more such “graffiti tools” to provide identification. Baringer’s proposal would make it illegal to possess spray paint or a marker on private property — “in a manner that warrants a justifiable and reasonable alarm or immediate concern” — without the owner’s consent.
Baringer, who represents the St. Louis Hills area, introduced similiar legislation earlier this year, but aldermen, concerned about the details, held it in committee.
Baringer has since re-introduced the bill, and this afternoon will go back before the Public Safety Committee.
Check out this week’s Riverfront Times, which has a story about Baringer’s effort.
Chicago, which has four times the graffiti problem that we do, has linked the offense to the perpetrator’s driving privileges. “Taggers” pick locations visible to many, similar to politicians and their billboards. Often, the painters are using vehicles to get from spot to spot. I’ve seen the same signatures in St. Charles as I’ve seen downtown St. Louis. So, in Chicago, those caught spray painting lose their license, or ability to get a license, for up to two years. I have no data as to how well it is working, but it seems a more connected approach, than another wet blanket over personal Liberty. While no one is envisioning it now, the above scenario has potential for persecuting innocent youth.
I mentioned this to a Captain from the 5th with regards to the street racers that we have in abundance on Sunday nights. Time will tell.
I’d like to make a small mention about the detail that comes behind and paints over the grafiti. I’ve seen them in action. Thank you!