Cops have bagged an infamous east Bronx tagger.
Anthony Miro, 16, of Throggs Neck, who splashed his “Loot” and “Derk” tags across community, was busted on Saturday, Nov. 9.
Cops are still looking for a fellow serial tagger “Zeke,” among a number of local graffiti vandals.
Miro, reportedly apologetic after his collar, was charged with ten counts of making graffiti, criminal mischief, and possessing graffiti instruments, according to a complaint.
He was released on his own recognizance. He is due back in court on January 22.
‘Destroying quality-of-life’
Community Board 10 Chairman John Marano said that “Loot,” along with the other tagger called “Zeke,” are among many graffiti vandals who are destroying the quality-of-life for local residents in the area.
“This kid [Loot] and his friend are two wrecking machines,” he said, urging the youth to take some pride in his community and treat it with respect.
Police sources said that the toughest challenge to arresting the graffiti vandal was having to catch him in the act.
According to the complaint, Miro allegedly left his tag all around Pelham Bay, Waterbury LaSalle, and Throggs Neck , starting about Monday, July 1 to Thursday, Oct. 22.
When he was caught, the complaint stated that Miro told cops that he “did the graffiti of Loot in memory of my brother.”
Said he’s sorry
“At the time, I was not thinking correct and I am truly sorry,” Miro allegedly said to a cop, according to the complaint. “I promise never to do it again. I have learned my lesson. Officers showed me pictures of all the graffiti I did and they were all mine.”
Marano said that he feels bad for Miro if he is having issues or needs help, but that the cumulative effect of all the graffiti he and other vandals produce is cheapening the look of the entire neighborhood.
He also said that that people in the neighborhood are concerned about the suspect and are willing to help him, and even volunteered to sit down with him personally if that is what it takes.
Graffiti cleanup
Marano and Community Board 10 are currently working with the 45th Precinct and Senator Jeff Klein to hold a graffiti cleanup day along E. Tremont Avenue on Saturday, Nov. 16.
Those wishing to participate will meet in front of the precinct stationhouse at 2877 Barkley Avenue, at 1 p.m.
They can R.S.V.P. by calling Senator Jeff Klein at (718) 822-2049.
Marano said that some of the areas around the community needing the most attention, in addition to E. Tremont Avenue, are near Westchester Avenue and Middletown Road, Throggs Neck Blvd. and Harding Avenue, and around Lafayette Avenue near the Cross Bronx Expressway service road.
