Mission Viejo is tracking graffiti crimes, which cost an estimated $12 billion nationally every year to clean up the mess, using cell phones equipped with cameras and global positioning devices (GPS.) The system is called Tracking Automated and Graffiti Reporting System or TAGRS. The Sheriff's Department, which provides police services for Mission Viejo, is implementing the system.
The advantages of the system include faster reporting of graffiti, improved documentation of the crime, and a search capability. The system is designed to allow users to search for tags made by the same crew. When crews cross city lines to tag, it is often difficult for law enforcement to work together to catch the crew and get restitution for the crimes. Using TAGRS, officers can search cities for similar crimes and the perpetrators can be made to pay.
Comments