One of the sites that was tagged was near the new mural on the north side of Abarrottes La Salud, 17 N. First Street. The mural, created by Des Moines artist Jenna Brownlee, was not touched but the graffiti is adjacent to it.

Black Tire Bike Co. and a vacant building were also tagged, as was the sidewalk on Main Street.

Marshalltown Police Captain Brian Batterson said graffiti has not been an especially large issue in the past, but it does happen from time to time in the community. As of Monday, only the graffiti at Black Tire Bike Co. had been officially reported to the police.

“We would encourage them to call the police so we can document it and follow up,” he said. “If they don’t report it to us we don’t know that it’s happening. We encourage them to call us so we can put some effort and some resources into it.”

T-R PHOTO BY JOE FISHER Dollar sign symbols, the words “Money Gang” and “JDEEZY was here” were painted on several buildings in downtown Marshalltown in what appears to be a coordinated act of vandalism. The police department is urging the public to report any acts of vandalism so it may be investigated promptly.

Batterson said the penalties for vandalism vary depending on the damage done and whether the perpetrator is a juvenile or adult.

He also said anyone who has more information can contact Marshall County Crime Stoppers with anonymous tips.

The Times-Republican will continue following this developing story.

Marshall County Crime Stoppers

Anonymously submit tips to Marshall County Crime Stoppers by calling 641-753-1234 or texting 274637. Marshall County Crime Stoppers would like to extend a $500 reward for any information leading to the arrest of the individuals responsible.

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Contact Joe Fisher at 641-753-6611 or jfisher@timesrepublican.com