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Graffiti outbreak in Sooke tarnishes downtown

Rick Stiebel – Sooke News Mirror
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Graffiti spray painted recently on the Sooke Boxing Club. Sooke RCMP have responded to eight reports of graffiti since July 16, with most of the damage done to businesses in the downtown core. (Photo contributed by Ellen Connor)

Rick Stiebel – Sooke News Mirror

A recent rash of graffiti is spreading its ugly stain in Sooke.

Sooke RCMP have responded to eight reports of graffiti since July 16, with most of the damage done to businesses in the downtown core, said Sooke RCMP Sgt. Clay Wiebe. It’s becoming a challenge to deal with the amount of graffiti, Wiebe noted.

“It has slowed a little, but continues to be a problem. We caught one individual who is set to appear in court on Aug. 23,” Wiebe said. “We can’t confirm if he is responsible for all of it at this time, and are continuing with other investigations.”

Sooke Mayor Maja Tait agreed that the problem does appear to be on the increase.

“It’s been more noticeable for sure,” she said. “You’re damaging private property. It can be difficult and expensive to remove.”

Tait advised people who have been tagged to report it to the RCMP, and take a picture of it before removal.

Wiebe stressed the importance of engaging the public in dealing with the issue, and asked anyone who discovers graffiti or observes suspicious activity of that nature to contact the detachment at 250-642-5241.