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Residents of Dartford have been left perplexed and intrigued by a spree of postbox makeovers, as a local man confesses to the colourful transformation of 37 postboxes across the area.
Danny Whisken, residing in Chaucer Way, Dartford, admitted to causing criminal damage without lawful excuse between January 31 and March 9, 2024. The 33-year-old utilised spray paint to alter postboxes, adorning them with distinctive colours and patterns, contravening sections 1(1) and 4 of the Criminal Damage Act 1971.
The majority of the postboxes targeted were located in the Temple Hill area, leaving the community curious about the motives behind Whisken’s artistic endeavours. While the extent of the damage remains undisclosed, the affected postboxes are owned by Royal Mail.
Whisken’s spree first caught the attention of authorities when he was arrested on February 13. However, he was subsequently released on bail pending further investigations by Kent Police. Despite the interim release, Whisken persisted in his graffiti spree, leading to his re-arrest on March 9. Following his re-apprehension, Whisken pleaded guilty on March 11 at Medway Magistrates Court.
Currently released on conditional bail until his next hearing scheduled for May 31 at 10 am, Whisken faces strict bail conditions, including a prohibition on possessing spray paint or paint products in public spaces.
The diverse patterns adorning the repainted postboxes have sparked intrigue among locals. From black-and-white cow print reminiscent of February 4 to pink boxes with gold splotches akin to the infamous character Mr. Blobby, the transformations have garnered attention. Notable sightings include a postbox on St. Vincents Road painted in purple, gold, and red with ‘Creme Egg’ inscribed on it, as well as a Union Jack-patterned postbox sighted in Trevithick Drive on February 27.
Royal Mail has confirmed plans to restore the postboxes to their original red painting, signalling the end of Whisken’s colourful intervention. As the legal proceedings unfold, Dartford residents await the resolution of this curious case that has added a splash of unexpected vibrancy to their community.
