Police have sent a stark warning to graffiti artists in Southend that all offenders will be prosecuted.

A rise in graffiti incidents over the holidays has forced police to step up their policy of zero tolerance.

PC Tony Newton of Leigh urged: "Do not give yourself a criminal record which can stay with you for years and risk the prospect of a considerable fine or imprisonment by following in the footsteps or influences of criminals.

"Each individual graffiti tag shows total disrespect for public property which can cost the victim anything from £50 to £1,000 to be repaired to its original condition."

Police are also appealing to parents to monitor the whereabouts of their teenagers, who they believe are responsible for the majority of graffiti. Anyone with information should phone 01702 471212.

Published Tuesday, April 29, 2003

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