Edmonton police says a 22-year-old man is facing 19 charges in connection to various graffiti incidents around the city.
EPS says they began an investigation in January 2023, after “SIPS” and “SIPSTER” graffiti tags began showing up.
Over the course of their investigation, police found an additional 24 unreported graffiti tags and noted Capital City Clean Up found another 44.
“We believe that there may be other victims that have not reported vandalism to their properties from the “SIPS” or “SIPSER” tag,” says EPS Whyte Avenue Beat Const. Olivier Gallant. “Victims are encouraged to contact police if their properties have been vandalized with either of these tags.”
It is believed the clean-up efforts cost over $11,000.
Through their investigation, police were able to identify a suspect and executed a search warrant.
During the search, officers found and seized evidence relating to the graffiti tags.
As a result, 22-year-old Skylar George Wood has been charged with mischief over $5,000 and 18 counts of mischief under $5,000.
Reporting and removing graffiti
Edmonton police are urging everyone to report instances of graffiti.
If you find graffiti on your property, it can be reported to EPS at 780-423-4567, online, or at a police station.
Additionally, police note it is important to make a note of the graffiti for insurance purposes. EPS says to take photos of the graffiti and note where it happened.
Everyone should also report graffiti to the City of Edmonton by calling 311.
As for graffiti removal, the Capital City Clean Up program can help property owners by providing up to $750 of free graffiti cleaning services per year.
EPS also notes that anyone who fails to remove graffiti in a timely manner could be fined $250.