Politics & Government

Deputies Commended for Graffiti Arrests

The San Clemente City Council recognized two deputies for arresting a number of suspected vandals in San Clemente, in part because of an art show at a local bar and coverage by Patch.

San Clemente police have arrested and charged two graffiti scrawlers, in part because of a Halloween art show at a local wine bar and coverage by San Clemente Patch.

Deputies David Pultz and Joe Kantar received an Orange County Sheriff's Department divisional commendation for the arrests and were honored by the city council Tuesday night.

One of those arrested is a suspected vandal who goes by the name of Bandit, who paints distinctive skulls with Native American headdresses and bandanas covering their faces.

Find out what's happening in San Clementewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

One of the suspects appeared in photos posted with Jackie Connor's October article for San Clemente Patch titled "" said San Clemente Police Services Chief Lt. Paul D'Auria.

Though he wore a bandana over his face, police recognized other characteristics and used photos on Patch and a local blog to link the suspect to his work, D'Auria told the city council.

Find out what's happening in San Clementewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Pultz and Kantar were able to stake out the suspect's home and obtain a search warrant. Inside, they found evidence of vandalism, vandalism tools and street signs, D'Auria said.

The two men are Kyle Rozunko, 21, and Kyle Dain Gingerelli, 24, according to a Wednesday email from D'Auria. Gingerelli has pleaded guilty to vandalism of $400 or more and possession of vandalism tools. He received a sentence of 30 days in jail, restitution including $100 in fines and three years of probation.

It is unclear if one of these men is responsible for the Bandit graffiti. Orange County Superior Court records do not currently show a vandalism-related criminal complaint for Rozunko.


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