Graffiti vandalismATLANTA (CBS ATLANTA) -
Police caught a graffiti vandal they say has marked up dozens of buildings all around Atlanta, causing thousands of dollars in damage.
Police arrested Cory Harris, who spray painted buildings around the city
costing property owners thousands of in damage, a spokesman said.
Candice Wilkes is happy police are cracking down on graffiti vandals in her Vine City neighborhood.
"I think it's a good idea," Wilkes said. "That's only way crime is going to stop."
Officers spotted Harris tagging freight trains the night of Sept. 11 and took him in.
"This guy is very prolific," said officer Brad Etterle with the Mayor's Task Force on Graffiti.
Police said Harris spray painted the letters "CUR" at the MARTA train station in Vine City, abandoned buildings, even the Mount Vernon Baptist Church on Northside Drive.
"It does cause a lot of damage and costs a lot of money. A lot of people don't realize the effect on property," Etterle said.
Some neighbors believe the vandal should be punished, but they do not think he deserves jail time, especially when so many others are committing violent crimes.
"He needs to know what he did was wrong. He should pay for what he did. But is there an alternative besides jail," asked Vine City resident Maria Durr.
Police said they will keep pursuing graffiti vandals because that type crime runs down neighborhoods and gives the impression communities do not care.
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