Is it vandalism or is it art? Well, the question is meaningless. Graffiti is always vandalism. By definition, it is committed without permission on another person's property, in an adolescent display of entitlement. Whether particular viewers find any given piece of graffiti artistically compelling is irrelevant.
The City of Las Cruces defines graffiti; Graffiti vandalism consists of intentionally and maliciously defacing any real or personal property of another with graffiti or other inscribed material without the consent or reasonable ground to believe that there is consent of the property owner. A violation of this ordinance may be punished by a fine not to exceed $500 or by imprisonment for a term not to exceed 90 days, or by both.
Report Graffiti
Prompt reporting of graffiti initiates the abatement process. Graffiti reported will initiate a report by a Las Cruces Police Department Codes Enforcement Officer who begins the abatement process. You can also call 575-528-4723 to report graffiti.
Graffiti Removal & Restoration
Immediate removal - within 24 to 48 hours - is one key to successful graffiti prevention. Learn more about the City of Las Cruces Codes regarding graffiti and its removal.