Graffiti Space Trap Tested In California Cities

Several cities in Southern California have been testing TaggerTrap, a surveillance system designed to identify the sound of active spray cans and notify police of the location of vandals, according to representatives.

TaggerTrap relies on global positioning system (GPS) technology, cell phones, and moveable sensors that recognize the ultrasonic pitch of aerosol paint within 100 feet, according to George Lerg, co-founder of TrapTec, which makes the systems.

TrapTec has also developed a system that alerts police to gunshots, and the company has been tapped by the U.S. Department of Defense to create systems to assist with homeland security.

According to San Diego municipal employee Sonya Ollison, the city spends roughly $1.5 million annually to clear graffiti; the city has already tested the system, which costs $2,000 per unit.
Abstracted by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center(NLECTC) from Reuters (02/13/03).