Painted markings on the back of stop signs and utility boxes have been found throughout the Riverland Terrace Neighborhood. Are they signs of gangs or just graffiti taggers? The RTNA is investigating these and other markings and will be diligent in determining what they mean.

The city of Charleston has formed a gang awareness program to help identify gang activity and give advice on how to confront them. Paul Duncil of the Crime Intelligent Unit gave a presentation on gang awareness on Monday, October 22, 2007. He discussed how a gang is defined, their colors and symbols, tattoos, how members are recruited, the warning signs of gang involvement, and other helpful advice.

All these photos were sent to Mr. Duncil and we are awaiting his response. In the meantime, please take photos of any strange or unusual markings and label their locations and send to the . Below are some numbers of the City of Charleston Crime Intelligent Unit.

Crime Prevention Officer

Sergeant Trevor Shelor    843-720-2436

Crime Stoppers

843-544-1111

Graffitit Hotline

843-958-1500

Crime Intelligent Unit