AZUSA — Police chased down and arrested a 15-year-old alleged graffiti vandal late Saturday, authorities said.

An Azusa police gang officer was patrolling about 10:40 p.m. when he noticed the teen spray-painting graffiti on the wall of a business in the 300 block of North Azusa Avenue, Azusa police Cpl. Rick Hayden said in a written statement.

“As the officer approached, the teen saw the officer and a short foot pursuit ensued with the teen hiding in a backyard,” he said. The teen, later identified as an Azusa resident, was soon arrested without further incident.

After being booked, Hayden said, the teen was released to a guardian with a written promise to appear in court.

The value of the graffiti damage was estimated at $200.

Hayden said Azusa police have a “zero tolerance” policy when it comes to graffiti, and anyone who witnesses a vandalism is encouraged to call the police.

“The City of Azusa also seeks restitution from convicted graffiti vandals and/or their parents to pay for the cost of repairing the damage,” he added.