Graffiti Vandalism on Uptick in Lake Ridge: Police

WOODBRIDGE, VA — A rash of graffiti cases in the Lake Ridge area were reported to Prince William County Police between Monday and Wednesday, with targets including electrical boxes, street signs, roadways, parks and various commercial buildings.

As such, police have provided tips and guidelines for residents.

What to do:

• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
• If you notice any unusual activity (people, vehicles out of place, strange or loud noises, etc.)
• Keep your front porch lights on.
• Community watch groups are encouraged to patrol, observe and report.

If you see someone tagging. . .

In progress (as its happening): dial 911

Otherwise dial 703-792-6500 and provide the following information:

• Location of the incident.
• Description/s of offender/s.
• What they are doing.
• Direction of travel if they leave - whether they are walking or in a vehicle.
• Registration number and description of vehicle, if possible.

If you find graffiti on your property. . .

Photograph the graffiti and report it to the police. You may report online (pwcgov.org/police) or call the police non-emergency number at 703-792-6500 and request a report by phone. Do not remove the graffiti until it has been photographed. After the graffiti is documented prompt removal is encouraged to reduce the likelihood of repeat vandalisms. Graffiti removal is the responsibility of the property owner.

If the graffiti appears to be gang related, an officer must respond to document and report the incident. Call 703-792-6500 to report the incident.

If you see graffiti. . .

If you see graffiti on another's residence or business, public property, utility boxes or road signs report it to Neighborhood Services.

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