In recent weeks, Eugene Police Downtown Team had observed numerous graffiti tags in the downtown area and identified the suspect as Kai Rose, age 39, of Eugene. More than 20 markings were connected to Rose, and the investigation is ongoing as additional victims locations are identified. On May 2, 2020, Rose was contacted regarding an unrelated incident, and charged with multiple counts of Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree. If anyone has information regarding this case (20-06733), please contact police at 541.682.5111. A photo of the tag associated with rose is attached.
Although graffiti is a common problem, because there are fewer people out and about to observe and report this crime, and because others have too much time on their hands, Eugene Police has had some increasing calls about this crime (Criminal Mischief) not only downtown, but also throughout other locations in the city.
Graffiti is more than a nuisance. It costs private property owners, schools, and businesses money and time to address the damage. City resources are also spent in erasing the markings. Each year, the City of Eugene Public Works Maintenance Division removes more than 9,250 tags on public property. At its worse, graffiti can demean a group or specifically and hatefully target individuals. These are reported as bias crimes and carry enhanced penalties.
Eugene Police is urging people to be on the lookout for these types of crimes occurring and report them. Reporting helps the City keep their eyes on potential problem areas and it can lead to finding and charging suspects.
Private property owners are encouraged to document and remove graffiti immediately because doing so promptly discourages additional graffiti. Taggers derive a certain excitement and thrill to tag in as many places as possible. Leaving it can attract other taggers to follow suit. Local paint stores can provide helpful information and products to help remove graffiti.
How to Report
To report graffiti as a crime (criminal mischief) or to report graffiti as a potential bias crime, call the Eugene Police non-emergency number at 541-682-5111. Graffiti on private property should also be reported to Code Compliance 541-682-5819. You can also conveniently report online at www.eugenepolice.com see “Report a Crime” button.
To report graffiti that is in the public rights of way or in developed parks, call Eugene Public Works Maintenance and Parks and Open Space divisions at 541-682-4800 or online at www.eugene-or.gov/1776/Maintenance-Service-Request.
To report graffiti on City-owned buildings, contact the City’s Facilities Department at 541-682-2690.