Queens Tribune
 
....November 26, 12:47 PM
 
Vandal Busted By Straphanger Cell Phone

Andrew Morella’s photo was taken with a cell phone and sent to the police.

By Michael Lanza

If you see something, text something.

That’s what happened on Nov. 17, when a straphanger aboard an N train in Queens noticed a teen scratching graffiti into a subway window. The woman took out her cell phone, snapped a shot of the crime, and forwarded it to the New York City Police Department’s Crimestoppers hotline.

Less than a week later, police identified and arrested Andrew Morello, 18, at his home in East Elmhurst. Morello was on probation for a 2007 arrest, when he attempted to bribe a police officer after being caught smoking marijuana.

Morello, who started a scuffle while attempting to evade the arresting officers, was charged with criminal mischief, making graffiti and resisting arrest.

He then allegedly made threatening statements about the woman who busted him after his bail release, according to published reports.

City Councilman Peter Vallone (D-Astoria), an anti-graffiti crusader, applauded the woman’s efforts, and promised to put Morello behind bars for the threats.

“People are sick and tired of graffiti, and when they act to protect their neighborhood they shouldn’t feel threatened,” Vallone said. “That’s why we will be in court to ensure that the judge realizes the seriousness of this matter.”

In 2006, Vallone helped secure a six-month sentence for Oliver Siandre, aka “Kiko,” for allegedly vandalizing thousands of dollars of property in Vallone’s district.

Vallone said he believes the arrest will constitute a violation of parole and, in addition to the recent charges, would earn him a stint in jail.

“If this guy wants to scribble on walls and windows, he will have plenty of time to practice in his cell at Rikers,” Vallone said.

Information regarding a crime committed or a wanted person can be texted to “CRIMES,” (274637), followed by “TIP577.”

Morello was caught on camera tagging the subway window.