The purpose of gang graffiti is to glorify the gang.  It is meant to create a sense of intimidation and it may increase the sense of fear within a neighborhood.  Gang members use graffiti to mark their territory, declare their allegiance to the gang, advertise a gang's status or power, and to challenge other rivals.  Graffiti is used to communicate messages between gangs using codes with common meaning. 

When a neighborhood is marked with graffiti, the entire area becomes a target for violence.  A rival gang identifies everyone in the neighborhood as a potential threat.  Consequently, innocent residents are subjected to gang violence. 
If you see property that has been vandalized by what you consider to be "gang" graffiti, please call the DeKalb Police Department at 815/748-8400 with the following information:

1. The street address where the damage is located
2. The property owner's name if available
3. The type of property on which the damage is located (house, fence, bridge, etc.)
4. Any information you have relating to who damaged the property

A police officer will respond, take a report and photograph the damage. The officer will determine if it is gang graffiti. Established procedures will be followed to have the property owner or another agency remove the damage.

Should you have questions or need assistance regarding gang graffiti and/or its removal you may call the DeKalb Police Department at 815/748-8400.

See MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 52.75 'GRAFFITI DEFACEMENT.'