TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) _ A Topeka police officer hopes to get volunteers to paint murals over graffiti that's been spray painted on several area buildings.

Lt. Joe Perry said his goal is to get artwork on locations that frequently have been ``tagged'' by graffiti artists, most of whom are gang members.

Perry has met with local leaders from various groups, including Safe Streets, Arts Connect and Downtown Topeka Inc. in recent weeks, and hopes to see the project started by the end of spring.

The Topeka Capital Journal reports that Perry is also looking for funding, and has been writing grant proposals to businesses.

He also has his eye on a building, which would serve as a source of pride for neighbors if the graffiti is replaced with art.
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Information from: The Topeka (Kan.) Capital-Journal, http://www.cjonline.com