Hemet Police Arrest Two Suspects in Graffiti Vandalism Investigation
HEMET, CA — “The Hemet Police Department has successfully apprehended two suspects linked to a series of graffiti vandalism incidents that have plagued local businesses and public property over the past several weeks.
On March 11, 2025, while conducting encampment enforcement along Florida Avenue, detectives from the AERO (Active Engagement Response and Outreach for our Community) Team obtained critical information regarding individuals responsible for the widespread “LMN” graffiti appearing throughout the city. The investigation led detectives to a local hotel, where they contacted the primary adult suspect.
Evidence – Courtesy of Hemet PD
During their contact, detectives discovered a significant amount of evidence directly linking him to the ongoing graffiti vandalism. Additionally, detectives seized 22.12 grams of methamphetamine and 1.84 grams of fentanyl, along with other evidence indicating narcotic sales. Initial estimates for damages caused by the tagging spree exceed $4,000 in just the past few weeks.
During an interview, the suspect confessed to multiple acts of vandalism and admitted to being a founding member of the tagging crew. The interview revealed a second adult suspect as the only other member of the group.
Evidence – Courtesy of Hemet PD
Later that evening, patrol officers conducted a coordinated search for the second suspect in the west end of the city. Officers quickly located and apprehended him in a parking lot of a retail center. In his immediate vicinity, officers discovered fresh graffiti consistent with the “LMN” tagging pattern. The suspect was also found in possession of multiple spray cans, paint markers, Sharpie markers, and several pieces of artwork displaying the same graffiti as what was on the nearby walls.
The victims in this case include the City of Hemet and several local businesses, such as Big 5, Les Schwab Tire, Riverside Transit Agency, Smart & Final, Travelodge, and La Bufadora, among others. Both suspects were taken into custody without incident and were later transported to Riverside County Jail. They are facing multiple charges, including felony vandalism, conspiracy to commit a crime, felony drug sales as well as felony probation violation, and an outstanding felony parole violation. The swift actions of AERO detectives and patrol officers have effectively dismantled this vandalism crew, hopefully putting an end to their defacement of city property and local businesses.
Hemet Police Chief Michael Arellano praised the department’s efforts in resolving this case:
“Vandalism like this is not just an eyesore—it causes real financial harm to business owners and taxpayers. Our officers and detectives did an outstanding job tracking down those responsible and ensuring they are held accountable and for that, I am extremely proud of them. The Hemet Police Department remains committed to keeping our city clean and safe, and we encourage the community to report any suspicious activity related to graffiti or vandalism.”
Anyone with additional information related to this case is encouraged to contact Detective Joromat at mjoromat@hemetca.gov or 951-765-2400. ”
