Los Banos, CA (September 10, 2025) — A Los Banos man is among two suspects recently arrested for allegedly participating in a widespread graffiti spree that defaced property throughout the Bay Area, according to a statement from the San Jose Police Department.
Sebastian Rodriguez, 23, was taken into custody at his home in Los Banos on September 3, following a lengthy investigation by San Jose police. Authorities believe Rodriguez is connected to the graffiti tag “STAPLE,” which has been found at more than 17 vandalism sites across San Jose.
A second individual, Brandon Arreola, 26, of San Jose, was arrested the same day. He is suspected of using the tag “2LATE” and is linked to at least 14 separate incidents. Investigators say both men are part of a tagging crew that also included a third suspect, known as “GOOB,” who had been arrested earlier in the year.
Police allege the group is responsible for over 100 acts of graffiti vandalism that occurred between July 2023 and April 2025, mainly in the South Bay Area.
When officers searched Rodriguez’s residence in Los Banos, they reportedly discovered a large quantity of spray paint cans, graffiti paraphernalia, and a firearm. Similar tagging materials were also recovered at Arreola’s home in San Jose.
Both men were booked into Santa Clara County Jail and face felony vandalism charges, according to the department.
San Jose police are urging the public to come forward with any information related to graffiti tagged with the names “GOOB,” “2LATE,” or “STAPLE.” Tips can be submitted anonymously via the P3TIPS mobile app, by calling (408) 947-STOP (7867), or through the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers website at www.svcrimestoppers.org.
