If parents don't crack down on their kids, the city of Santa Ana might crack down on parents.
Under a proposed anti-graffiti law, parents would be held financially responsible for their children's actions. The city would be allowed to collect fines and restitution from the vandals' parents.
The city could even place a lien on the parents' house, according to the Orange County Register.
The newspaper reported that the proposal -- dubbed, "If You Spray, You Pay" -- was developed by a group of community leaders, businesses and activists.
Graffiti abatement will cost the city about $2.4 million this fiscal year, the newspaper reported.
The crime would be classified as a misdemeanor. A trust fund would be established to fight vandalism.
