Arrest Made after Vandalism at the Idaho Statehouse; Second Arrest for Theft of a Flag

For Immediate Release: Thursday, June 4, 11:05 am

Please direct questions to the ISP PIO office at isppio@isp.idaho.gov.

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During an otherwise peaceful demonstration last night, Idaho State Police arrested an 18 year old Boise woman for spray painting on the front of the Idaho State Capitol. The arrest was made without incident and did not disrupt the voices of those peacefully protesting.

"The Idaho Capitol building is a symbol of hope and resolve to all Idahoans and a backdrop for dozens of peaceful protests each year. The voices of peaceful protesters cannot be overshadowed by the criminal acts of the very few. Yet those who intentionally do damage to the house owned by all the people of Idaho will be called to account for their actions." Said ISP Captain Matthew Sly.

What Happened: Approximately 7:00 pm Wednesday evening, June 3, as the first few protesters began to arrive at the Statehouse, a concerned citizen alerted Capital Mall Security after finding blue spray paint on the columns and front facade of the south side of the Capitol, the Jefferson Street side. Idaho State Police, with the assistance of Boise Police, soon discovered evidence that led to the identification of the suspect. The suspect was located still in the area of the Statehouse and was taken into custody without incident.

Arrested: Daisy Shannon Heatherly, 18, Boise

Charge: Felony Malicious Injury to Property.

The felony charge indicates the estimate of the damage done to the Statehouse is in excess of $1,000.

The Idaho State Police have also identified two teenage juveniles who appear to have been with the suspect Heatherly when the damage was done. As the investigation continues, additional charges could be filed against the involved juveniles.

Additionally, in a separate incident later in the protest, an Idaho State Police Trooper witnessed a woman take a flag out of the hands of another protester. The flag taken was one of several specialty flags carried by protesters during last nights demonstration.

Arrested: Madison Lee Allen, 18, Boise

Charges: Petit Theft (m), Possession of marijuana (m), Possession of drug paraphernalia (m), Resisting and obstructing officers (m)

Idaho State Police Colonel Kedrick Wills has been at the Statehouse during several demonstrations and says the vast majority of those assembled were respectful and cooperative with Troopers and Officers.

"Idahoans have a long history of peaceful assembly at our State Capitol and our Troopers have protected tens of thousands of protesters over the years allowing their voices to be heard. It's the Idaho way to treat others with respect and enact change through cooperation. We appreciate those who are showing that respect to their fellow protesters, the community, and to the Troopers and Officers tasked with protecting them." Said Colonel Wills.

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Posted in District 3 - Western Idaho