Zero Tolerance Policy On Graffiti

By B.B. St. Roman

The City of New Orleans and the 8th District NOPD have announced a zero- tolerance campaign on fighting graffiti in the French Quarter, spearheaded by Operation Clean Sweep, Inc., a non-profit organization founded five years ago. Founder and director Fred Radtke reports that since its inception, Operation Clean Sweep has helped reduce graffiti in the French Quarter by 80%. In working toward its goal of "zero tolerance," it will serve as a great model for other areas.

Mr. Radtke promises to aggressively go after graffiti as soon as his office receives a call. "If someone calls us about graffiti, we will eliminate it within 7 days." He also notes that Operation Clean Sweep is offering a $100 reward for the arrest and conviction of anyone caught doing graffiti in the City of New Orleans. So far, 15 persons have been convicted.

To report a graffiti "artist" in action, first call the police, then call the Graffiti Hotline.. To report after-the-act graffiti on your building or anywhere you see it, just call the hotline, and it will be painted over within one week. If you have matching paint available, they will be glad to use it. The 24-hour Graffiti Hotline number is 486-9694.