Pixabay/Graffiti
VENTNOR The Atlantic City and Ventnor City police departments conducted a cooperative investigation that led to the arrest of a man police believe is responsible for graffiti vandalism throughout the Downbeach area.
Atlantic City Officer Albert Herbert Dec. 4 arrested Steve Araujo, 40, of Ventnor, following a joint investigation into graffiti being spray painted at numerous locations in Atlantic City and Ventnor City.
During the month of August, both police departments were alerted to numerous locations that were vandalized, including completed art projects in the Lower Chelsea neighborhood of Atlantic City, electrical boxes and businesses. The officers began a cooperative investigation that ultimately led to the arrest of Araujo on Oakland Avenue in Ventnor City. The graffiti continued through November as the officers followed up on leads and continued their investigation.
During a search of Araujo's residence, officers located evidence used in the commission or preparation of vandalizing the properties, including a sketchbook with artwork, 73 spray paint cans, 30 paint markers, approximately 75 spray nozzles, and 150 Sharpie markers.
Araujo was charged with criminal mischief and released on a summons with a future court date.
Herbert was aided in the investigation by Officer Howard Mason and Ventnor City Police Department Sgt. Kevin Brady.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Atlantic City Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit at 609-347-5766 or submit a text anonymously to tip411 (847411).
