Officers began an investigation into gang-related graffiti in downtown Centralia. Officers asked local business owners about spray paint purchases, leading to several suspects, including two that were arrested Friday afternoon.
The officers were driving into town to run errands after 4 p.m. Friday when they recognized two people "wanted in connection with a graffiti investigation," the release said.
Officers approached the men, identified themselves as officers and called in patrol officers for backup.
One of the men was taken into custody and interviewed. The second was identified with video surveillance footage and agreed to turn themselves in.
One of the men arrested told police he was spray painting over existing graffiti "because he hate(s) gangs, because they bring the city down and give it a bad name," the release said.
The men, 21 and 18, were arrested and booked or third-degree malicious mischief.
