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Two teens arrested in painting of swastika at Bayshore condo, also suspected in Virage damage

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TAMPA — Two teenagers snuck into the parking garage of Bayshore Regency Condominiums and painted a neon green swastika and other graffiti in the early morning hours of May 30, Tampa police say.

Mark Alan Griffiths Jr., 18, and a 17-year-old were arrested June 3 and charged with criminal mischief. The two also spray painted "YMCA" and "SS," a Nazi symbol, in the garage at 3435 Bayshore Blvd., police say. They were captured on the building’s security system between 5 and 6 a.m.

Police found spray-paint cans in Griffiths' bedroom. The building's manager told police there was about $75 worth of damage to the building.

Police believe the suspects may also be connected to a vandalism incident down the street at the Virage condo tower now under construction. In that incident, teenagers are believed to have broken into the Virage on June 2 and damaged elevator equipment. The case is still under investigation and no arrests have been made. Police found spray-paint cans in one teen’s bedroom. Damage at the Bayshore Regency was estimated at $75.