Pendleton police charge three for graffiti
By Terry Murry on Thursday, October 5th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – Pendleton police believe they’ve stopped the uptick in graffiti noticed over the last couple of weeks in the Round-Up City. Police Chief Chuck Byram said there were around 14 reports of graffiti since Sept. 20 and all of it appeared to be done by the same individual or group.
“The graffiti in all cases was similar in nature and represented the 18th Street Gang in one way or another,” Byram wrote in a news release. “Patrol personnel, through dedicated area patrols and use of video surveillance were able to identify and arrest three subjects believed to be responsible for the acts of vandalism.”
Adan Gomez, 18, of Pendleton was lodged at Umatilla County Jail. A 17-year-old boy and a 17-year-old girl were cited and released to their respective guardians. Since damage was in excess of $1,000, the trio is charged with first-degree criminal mischief and criminal conspiracy.
PPD Lt. Tony Nelson said on the positive side, Pendleton’s graffiti abatement program makes sure the eyesores disappear.
“You’ll see graffiti there for a day or two, but then the city pays for that to get removed and covered up so we don’t turn into some of the bigger cities where you see graffiti and gang signs for years on end,” he said.
