Graffiti Incidents Lead To Arrest, $9K In Damages, Red Bank Police Say

RED BANK, NJ — A series of graffiti incidents throughout the borough has led to approximately $9,000 in damages and the arrest of a Red Bank man, Red Bank Police Chief Michael Frazee told Patch.

Between June 19 and July 24, Frazee said the department responded to “a noticeable uptick” in graffiti incidents throughout the borough, with a majority of occurrences reported west of Shrewsbury Avenue.

The vandalism included multiple spray-painted tags and signatures across both borough-owned and residential properties, which led to an investigation by Detective Michael Zadlock.

After reviewing and analyzing hours of surveillance footage, Det. Zadlock was able to identify a suspect in the case, identified as Anthony Aguilar-Luna, a resident of Catherine Street, Frazee said. He was charged with criminal mischief.

According to Frazee, the damage resulting from these incidents is estimated at approximately $9,000, and members of the community have inquired whether the graffiti is linked to gang activity.

While the department is unable to confirm any gang affiliations at this time, Frazee said it's not uncommon to see an increase in graffiti-related activity during the summer months.

“The Red Bank Police Department remains committed to preserving the safety and quality of life of all residents,” Frazee said. “We encourage anyone who witnesses suspicious activity to report it immediately.”