Media Alert
Date: 31 January 2009
From: Crimestoppers, NSW Police
Web: www.police.nsw.gov.au graffiti search

Crime Stoppers launches school campaign against graffiti vandalism

Graffiti vandalism is on the increase. From 7.3 percent in 2001, graffiti vandalism grew to 10 percent in 2006, representing an increase of 2.9 percent over this period.

A recent survey, conducted by Crime Stoppers Australia, found that 85 percent of 12 to 18 year olds believed vandalism is not a “cool” thing to do. 83 percent realised graffiti vandalism is identified as a crime and 74 percent believed graffiti is vandalism, yet graffiti vandalism continues to rise.

NSW Police Force has also found that individuals who commit graffiti vandalism are likely to also become involved in other criminal offences such as trespassing of property and stealing.

Eighty-six per cent of youth surveyed believed that there is a need for action to be taken against those participating in graffiti vandalism. With the detrimental effect graffiti vandalism has on their future and community, Crime Stoppers has taken the initiative to educate youth. A graffiti campaign called ‘Be Graffiti Smart’ has been developed to inform young students of the seriousness of graffiti vandalism and the repercussions.

With the assistance of the Senior Constable Rob Walsh, the School Liaison Officer for the Waratah sector, with the Policy Programs PHQ at Parramatta, NSW Crime Stoppers are scheduled to visit schools throughout the month of December to educate students about the effect graffiti vandalism has on their future and community.

Matthew Peet, also known as “Matthew-Mistery” is an inspiring local street-artist. Matthew is the spokesperson for a series of instructive graffiti school visits as part of Crime Stoppers’ campaign. His experience and reputation mean that Matthew can inform youth of the difference between graffiti vandalism and street-art, as well as ways to become involved in the creative and exciting world of street-art, rather than the crime of graffiti.

To reach school age children, an animated character called Frank Hardcase has been created. This hard-hitting investigative journalist is a campaign to bust the myth that graffiti vandalism is a victimless crime.

CEO of NSW Crime Stoppers, Mr Peter Price said,” the ‘Be Graffiti Smart’ campaign is designed to developed positive behaviours in young students so they can be aware of the wider effects of graffiti vandalism and to develop respect for their community”.

NSW Crime Stoppers believes it is necessary for youth to be addressed with facts on the seriousness of graffiti vandalism. How and why it is a crime, as well as convincing reason why youth should not become involved.