On 9/8/2012 at 10 pm, members of the Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Team (MAGNET) responded to the area of Coffey Lane and Bluebell Drive, in the City of Santa Rosa for a report of a vandalism in progress. A passing witness reported to a deputy that a group of subjects were believed to be "tagging" buildings with graffiti.
Members of MAGNET and Sonoma County Sheriff's deputies responded to the area. Sheriff's Sergeant Shawn Murphy, detained five male juveniles near-by matching eyewitness descriptions. The juveniles were found in possession of numerous cans of spray paint and permanent markers. They had paint on their hands and clothing.
Further investigation lead to the discovery of at least 24 separate acts of vandalism committed by the suspects. The monetary amount of damage is not known at this time.
Three of the juveniles booked into Sonoma County Juvenile Hall were 17 years old. Two of the juveniles were 16 years old. They were charged with vandalism over $400.00 (594 P.C; felony), conspiracy (182 P.C; felony) and possession of spray paint with the intent to commit vandalism (594.1 PC , misdemeanor).
The primary graffiti tags of the suspects were "Zerk" and "Cron". Victims of graffiti vandalism involving these tags are encouraged to contact MAGNET at the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office (707) 565-2650.
Press Release prepared by Sgt. Dave Pedersen
Sonoma County Sheriff's Office
Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Team
(707) 565-7394
Re: CR 120908-031
