Arrests for chalk markings or drawings

Freedom of Information (FOI) Act request ref: 01/FIN/25/003443/C

Version Date: 31/07/2025

The Performance Analysis Department has provided the following information.

Data Source:

Niche crime information system.

Data Processing:

Searched for keywords “chalk” and “chalking” within the Occurrence Summary OEL text. All occurrences then manually reviewed for relevance.

For the period 1st January 2024 to date (19 or 20 months, depending on when a response is provided), please provide the number of arrests made in each month relating to the use of chalk to make drawings, notices or markings on the ground.
One in June 2025.

The specific charge(s) made for chalking offences.
Criminal damage.

For each month, number of charges meeting the threshold for referral to CPS or other prosecution service.
One in June 2025.

For each month, number of prosecutions upheld by a court of law.

No information held, the police handle arrests and charges. For prosecutions, please contact His Majesty’s Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) HM Courts & Tribunals Service - GOV.UK.