Since his return to the street art scene in 2010, Adam "COST" has been on the radar of the NYPD. According to CBS News, the legendary artist was seen in the Meatpacking District over the weekend "carrying an extendable pole with a wet brush affixed to it" and was arrested.
Officer Colin Sullivan said in a news release that he had noticed fresh pastes around the city and knew that COST was active again. "Everyone in my unit was aware of what this guy looks like. I’ve been boring these guys to death with Adam Cost pictures." On Sunday, two officers saw a man who fit his description and noticed a paste that was still dripping on a wall with a container of glue on the ground nearby. The lid to the container was found near a Porsche Cayenne, and when they got a warrant to search the vehicle they found "adhesive, brushes, and hundreds of 'COST' stickers and posters" inside.
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COST was charged with "criminal mischief, making graffiti, and possession of a graffiti instrument," charges that ANIMAL says are all misdemeanors except for the felony property damage charges. The charges apparently can't result in jail time, but COST may be put on probation and be made to clean up graffiti...again. He is due back in court on Oct. 10.
The street art community has shown support for the artist on social media, posting #FreeCost messages on Instagram and Twitter:
"Wheatpaste on the table" is the new "dope on the table" apparently.
— bassfaced (@bassfaced) October 9, 2014
I dunno is that grafitti? Getting busted with your Porsche jeep?! Lololol whatever shits mad wavy #freecost
— THE NEW YORK PPPOST (@SLUTLUST) October 9, 2014
Ahhh! COST arrested. We were so happy he was back. #NYC = too pristine & prissy! http://t.co/UnaCQlx1W6 @NYMag pic.twitter.com/CpNr3yfUuT
— New York Filmmaker (@filmsbyAmy) October 9, 2014[via CBS News]
