NEW YORK – A 16-year-old protester, engaged in an anti-Israel demonstration in Central Park, was apprehended by the NYPD after defacing a World War I memorial earlier this week. The teenager faces charges of criminal mischief and graffiti-related offenses for allegedly vandalizing the 107th Infantry Memorial during the protest.
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Known for his participation in rallies organized by the anti-Israel group Within Our Lifetime, the teenager was identified through a blurred photo shared by NYPD Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry. Initial reports suggested he was turned in by his father, although police have since denied this claim.
The despicable vandalism we saw earlier this week on the WWI Memorial will not be ignored, and will not go unpunished. One of the culprits was placed in handcuffs today thanks to the World’s Greatest Detectives. This isn’t simply juvenile hijinks- it’s an act of desecration that… pic.twitter.com/2R8uzssIqD
— NYPD Deputy Commissioner, Operations Kaz Daughtry (@NYPDDaughtry) May 10, 2024
Daughtry emphasized the severity of the vandalism, labeling it as an act of desecration that dishonors the sacrifices made by wartime heroes. Despite attending Tottenville High School and having no prior criminal record, the teenager’s involvement in defacing the war memorial has drawn significant condemnation.
During the protest, the memorial was defaced with graffiti bearing messages such as “Gaza” and “Free Palestine,” and adorned with anti-Israel stickers. Additionally, an American flag was set on fire in front of the bronze memorial, while protesters climbed atop the statue, waving Palestinian flags.
The incident sparked outrage among New Yorkers, with residents condemning the destruction of a historical monument dedicated to World War I veterans. Michael Skol, a long-time resident of the area, criticized the protesters for their violent actions, stating that such behavior only undermines their cause and does not contribute to peace efforts.
Cleanup efforts were promptly initiated to remove the graffiti from the memorial, highlighting the community’s commitment to preserving its historical landmarks. Notably, similar acts of vandalism occurred at the nearby Civil War Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman monument in Grand Army Plaza, further emphasizing the need for respect towards public memorials and symbols of remembrance.
Mind boggling. These brainless rogues deface and disrespect American monuments and icons. Their deplorable behavior should cause widespread disgust and repugnance for them and their “cause”. And there should be severe consequences too.. Yet these pro-Palestinian protests, illegal encampments and marches continue unabated. What am I missing here?
Gallows.saves us from future problems with this anti social moron
From the picture it is clear that he is a blockhead.
Pali refugee family. Stop letting these vandals in!