WASHINGTON, D.C. — A Maryland man has been arrested in connection with two separate destruction of property incidents in the District, including the vandalism of Pride Month decorations and graffiti containing offensive language.
The first incident occurred on Sunday, June 2, at approximately 7:42 p.m., when rainbow-colored cloths wrapped around light poles in Dupont Circle were destroyed. The suspect fled the scene before officers arrived. The incident was classified under CCN: 25082529.
Two days later, on Tuesday, June 4, around 7:58 a.m., another offense was reported in the 600 block of Maine Avenue, Southwest. The suspect defaced private property with spray-painted graffiti containing offensive messages. That offense was logged under CCN: 25083229.
Officers make arrest after spotting suspect in Navy Yard
Police reviewed video footage and photographs from both scenes to help identify the individual responsible. On Sunday, June 8, officers patrolling the Navy Yard area spotted the suspect and made the arrest without incident.
The suspect has been identified as 30-year-old Michael Isaiah Webb Jr. of Landover, Maryland. He is charged with Destruction of Property and Defacing Private Property.
The Metropolitan Police Department is reviewing whether these acts were motivated by hate or bias. The Special Liaison Branch is assisting with the ongoing investigation. MPD clarified that a hate crime designation does not determine how the case will be prosecuted.