Graffiti artists at Lee schools could face felony charges

CAPE CORAL, Fla. — Vandals who spray-painted marijuana-themed graffiti at Cape Coral and Ida S. Baker high schools could face felony charges, a Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers official said.

A photo shows similar graffiti at North Fort Myers High School.

Authorities are still looking for those responsible for the vandalism, which cost roughly $500 to clean up at Cape Coral and Ida S. Baker, according to Crime Stoppers. Administrators at those schools discovered it Monday, so the painting likely took place this past weekend.

“The suspects in each of these instances are most likely teenagers, who may have been under the impression that it was just a joke,” said Trish Routte, Crime Stoppers coordinator.  “But what may have seemed like fun or a good idea at the time is actually a crime, and due to the extent of the damage at both schools, the individuals involved may now potentially be charged with a felony crime.”

The graffiti at Cape Coral High was on the football concession stand. At Ida S. Baker, it was on the north side of the school building. It was on the exterior cafeteria wall at North Fort Myers.

Anyone with information on the suspects responsible for the vandalism at the two Cape schools is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477).  All callers will remain anonymous and will be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.  Tips may also be made online at www.southwestfloridacrimestoppers.com.