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Vandalism Surge: 'SMOKE' Tags Over 30 Businesses

12/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The vandal sprayed "SMOKE" on more than 30 businesses across 20 Upper West Side blocks on Monday, triggering outrage.
Gale Brewer, New York City Council member for the Upper West Side, condemned the act.
Vincent Gragani, spokesman for the Department of Sanitation, said the city handles about 18,000 graffiti requests annually, costing about $2.7 million.
The NYPD is still seeking the perpetrator as the tag has appeared in other areas.

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Story summary

The vandal sprayed "SMOKE" on more than 30 businesses across 20 Upper West Side blocks on Monday, triggering outrage.
Gale Brewer, New York City Council member for the Upper West Side, condemned the act.
Vincent Gragani, spokesman for the Department of Sanitation, said the city handles about 18,000 graffiti requests annually, costing about $2.7 million.
The NYPD is still seeking the perpetrator as the tag has appeared in other areas.