Prolific graffiti writer Daniel Montano was sentenced today to 2 1/2 to 5 years in a state prison, five years probation, a restitution of $232,582 and 2,500 hours of community service.

The 22-year-old Highland Park resident and a former student of the San Francisco Art Institute had a previous conviction and two cases pending last year when he was arrested again for the vandalism of 20 more properties in the city. He often used the tag "Mfone" on his writings.

His defense attorney, William Cercone, made the argument that addiction to numerous drugs set a talented, good son on a destructive course and that, after six months of incarceration, which included drug-and-alcohol treatment, "I see a different young man on my right than I did six months ago. Give him the opportunity to keep it going."

Matthew Robinowitz, arguing for the Commonwealth, said Mr. Montano "has been given chances before. After arrests in 2006 and 2007, he said, "when he got out, it's bigger and better than ever. . . What he learned was 'I can get away with it,' so he extended his operation. I think Mr. Montano is not going to learn his lesson. This is an issue of punishment, regardless of his talent."

Allegheny County Judge Kevin G. Sasinoski called it "a very difficult case with a lot of unique issues," including the fact that both his parents as well as family friends showed up in court to speak well of the defendant. He doubted the defense's contention that substance abuse was a cause. "I'm not sure about the nexus between drug addiction and vandalism. You appear not to have any respect for anyone else's property."

Addressing the defendant, the judge said, "Mr. Montano, good luck to you. You still have the opportunity to pay your debt to society."