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NEW PORT RICHEY — Three times over the past few weeks, someone has painted the back of a Masonic temple with bright-colored graffiti. The third time, police say, the vandals got caught in the act.
Three teenagers, ages 14, 15 and 17, were arrested Monday night on charges of criminal mischief. Their names are being withheld because of their ages.
According to a New Port Richey police report, the three were observed spray painting words and symbols on the back wall of the Pearl of the West Masonic Temple on Louisiana Avenue.
When police arrived, one of the teens declared, "This is our spot," and "It's about getting our name up on the street."
All three were wearing red clothes and did not appear to be upset about being arrested, according to the report.
But police don't think the teens are involved in a gang.
"Apparently, the juveniles just thought the whole thing was a big joke," said New Port Richey Lt. Scott Baker.
Another indication: the graffiti included the disclaimer "not gang related" in red paint.
Molly Moorhead can be reached at moorhead@sptimes.com or (727) 869-6245.
[Last modified: Sep 18, 2008 02:03 PM]
Comments on this article
by Chip
Sep 17, 2008 4:55 PM
You can be sure the parents will balk at making restitution and that some sleazeball attorney will demand they not be punished. I hope the Times follows up on this. Not much will happen to these losers. We'll probably find out "they're good kids."
by jason r
Sep 17, 2008 4:54 PM
We need to cane our teens like other countries do. Cost effective, quick and they'll heal. Heck, I say cane them once upon the 13th bday, just as an FYI. Harsh but I bet it would be effective.
by pj
Sep 17, 2008 2:19 PM
this is not my home lodge but i will be treated as if it was if i were to visit the teens that did this should be turned over to the thiler and face the worship master in the east and in true tradition raised, you know the rest
by art
Sep 17, 2008 2:17 PM
Good you caught them now make them do community service and bill their parents to clean up the mess.
by mat
Sep 17, 2008 1:50 PM
this is a work of art the teens should not be in trouble and the building looks abandoned
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