LA Utility Worker Among Four Charged in Massive Graffiti Spree Causing $173,000 in Damage
Prosecutors allege a year-long vandalism campaign that used specialized equipment and drones, with one suspect allegedly using city gear to scale buildings.
A group of alleged graffiti vandals caused nearly $173,000 in damage across Los Angeles during a year-long spree, with one of the accused identified as Javier Rezendez Rocha, an electrical craft helper for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. Rocha faces 12 felony counts of vandalism, with prosecutors alleging the rampage occurred between August 2025 and August 2026.
According to court documents, Rocha, employed by the LADWP since 2018, allegedly used his specialized utility gear and climbing ropes to assist the crew in scaling buildings. The group is accused of employing ladders and advanced climbing equipment to reach high structures, spray-painting their exteriors. Prosecutors also stated that the defendants used drones to capture footage of their work and subsequently profited by selling merchandise associated with their graffiti.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman criticized the alleged operation, stating, "These defendants turned buildings across Los Angeles into their personal billboards, leaving property owners with over $170,000 in repair costs." He emphasized that the crimes were not victimless and aimed to degrade the community's quality of life, adding, "To anyone thinking about vandalizing property, Los Angeles County is not yours to deface."
The total cost of the damage reached $172,930, with some affected buildings noted as historically significant. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell commented that the vandalism impacted businesses, property owners, taxpayers, and the broader community, with some of the city's well-known buildings and public spaces allegedly targeted.
"Let this serve as a clear message: If you deface our city, we will investigate you, identify you and hold you accountable," McDonnell stated.
The three other defendants are Michael Ray Gonzales of Pico Rivera, facing seven felony counts; Francisco Rodriguez Aguilar of West Covina, facing two felony counts; and Richard Evan Ward II of Oceanside, also facing two felony counts.
Rocha's alleged salary ranges from $75,335 to $102,249 annually. If convicted, Rocha faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years and four months in county jail. Gonzales could face up to seven years, while Rodriguez Aguilar and Ward each face up to three years and eight months.
The case was filed on October 8. Ward pleaded not guilty on October 12 and has a preliminary hearing set for November 19. Rodriguez Aguilar is scheduled for arraignment on October 19, and Rocha is due to appear on October 23. Gonzales's arraignment date is pending. Those who have already been arraigned were released on their own recognizance.