A Grass Valley teen arrested last August for graffiti-tagging nearly 30 local businesses may be placed on a probation program gaining popularity. Called the Transitional Age Youth Program, it’s aimed at young adults, 18 to 25 years old, struggling with overwhelming life stressors and/or severe mental health challenges. Nevada County Deputy District Attorney Casey Ayer says Nathaniel Nunez De Arco, 18 at the time of his arrest, is eligible to be evaluated, also because it was a non-serious or non-violent offense.

click to listen to Casey Ayer

De Arco also has no prior arrests. The activity was caught on video surveillance. Ayer says if a deal is worked out, probation would last at least 18 months…

click to listen to Casey Ayer

Estimated cleanup costs, also including any property damage repairs, was in the tens of thousands of dollars. Community service and cognitive behavioral therapy are also often required. An agreement may be worked out at the next court proceeding on June 10th.