Teen arrested on graffiti charge in West Asheville

ASHEVILLE – City police on Wednesday morning arrested an Arden teen they said sprayed paint on a building in West Asheville.

Officers noticed fresh red paint on the side of the building at 643 Haywood Road about 4:18 a.m., Sgt. Dave Romick said. They then saw a male wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and camouflage pants walking east on Haywood Road. The individual ran between buildings and attempted to hide, Romick said.

Officers searched the area and located a 17-year-old laying down in overgrowth near his moped. Police said he had red paint on his hands and told officers he had painted the side of the building.

Officers also located two spray paint cans that he threw as he ran between 647 and 643 Haywood Road. The teen, who lives in Arden, was taken to the Buncombe County jail and charged with damage to property. His bond was set at $500 secured.

The Citizen-Times is not naming the boy because of his age.

Asheville police have increased patrols in an effort to address graffiti vandalism. The West Asheville neighborhood was one of the areas hit hardest by tagging earlier this year.

City Council approved a plan Tuesday to work with private property owners to get graffiti removed across the city this summer and beyond and crack down on graffiti vandals.

Read about Asheville area crime news on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshevilleCitizenTimesCrimeWatch