Growing graffiti problem in Ocoee

OCOEE, Fla. (FOX 35 Orlando) - A vandal has been leaving parks in one Seminole County community covered in graffiti.  It's been popping up in public parks around Ocoee.

Ocoee Police say vandals have been leaving the ugly markings, using park building and structures as a canvas.

"It's normally known as 'tags.' It's basically what someone wants to have their name recognized," said Ocoee Police Deputy Chief Stephen McCosker.

McCosker said it's been happening during the last 10 days, at Tiger Minor Park, Bulldog Field, Vigenetti Park and a shopping plaza.

"[We] definitely take this very seriously," he said.  "It could have some serious consequences for the community as people might think it's gang related."

Officers said they tried to get the graffiti cleaned up as soon as possible, but you can still see it through the paint, in some cases.  Officers said the suspect is a juvenile and will face criminal mischief charges.

"We went ahead and arrested someone on unrelated charges and tied it into the graffiti," McCosker said.

Officers say the parents of the juvenile suspect will most likely have to pay for clean up expenses.