Solomon Ortiz, Jr.

April 27, 2009

~ Bill Cracks Down on Repeat Offenders, Requires Restitution for Victims ~

CORPUS CHRISTI -- Rep. Solomon Ortiz, Jr. today announced that the Texas House of Representatives passed strong legislation to combat graffiti in communities across Texas.

"Graffiti is a serious issue in Corpus Christi and Texas, and results in serious property damage" Ortiz said. "It's time to get tough on repeat offenders. Requiring the offenders to complete restitution to victims is a good way to make sure justice is served. Offenders need to see firsthand how damaging their actions can be."

HB 1633 by Rep. Armando Walle (D-Houston), which Rep. Ortiz joint authored, requires graffiti offenders to complete a minimum number of community service hours and provide restitution to the victim. It also enhances penalties for repeat offenders, making a third-time offense a state jail felony.

Rep. Ortiz worked with Rep. Walle to add a provision amending the graffiti code to include all types of paint, not just aerosol paint. In the past, some taggers have exploited that loophole to evade legal consequences.

"This passage of this legislation will help our efforts to combat graffiti," said Detective Ben Teed of the Corpus Christi Police Department. "Rep. Ortiz has worked diligently to make sure law enforcement has the tools it needs to address this problem in our community."

Rep. Ortiz also worked with Rep. Joe Moody (D-El Paso) to pass legislation to help law enforcement combat graffiti gangs. Moody's legislation increases penalties for members of criminal street gangs who engage in graffiti tagging.

Ortiz represents District 33, which includes part of Nueces County and the City of Corpus Christi. Rep. Ortiz encourages constituents to contact his office on this or any issue of interest at (512) 463-0484, email him at district33.ortizjr@house.state.tx.us or visit the Texas House of Representatives web site at www.house.state.tx.us.