Apparently, Reno, Nevada has invested a lot of time and money to beautify the city. Recently though, "graffiti artists" (also known as street punks), have been adding their own brand of beautification to highway landscaping. When such vile crime occurs, drastic measures must be taken.

At least, according to Oscar Goodman, mayor of Reno.

Goodman suggested that these ultra-violent criminals have their thumbs cut off on live television. The mayor made these comments while appearing on a local television show "Nevada Newsmakers," and also suggested a return to canings and whippings.

In 2004, the city reported 1,480 violent crimes, broken down as such:

• 9 murders
• 112 rapes
• 464 robberies
• 895 aggravated assaults

There were 10,154 property crimes, all falling under the categories of burglaries or thefts.

I wonder what the good mayor would suggest as punishment for the fine people who committed these crimes. So let's hear it for another great idea from our politicians - clearly Reno, Nevada has got a handle on the best way to protect its citizens.

I'll definitely be moving there next week...