Bloomington, Indiana man accused to vandalizing Washington Monument in Washington D.C. Tuesday

A 44-year-old Bloomington man is suspected of vandalizing the Washington Monument in Washington D.C. at 7:30 p.m., on September 20, 2022, according to a press release from the United States Park Police.

According to the press release, Shaun Ray Deaton, 44, of Bloomington, Indiana was arrested after allegedly vandalizing the outside base of the Washington Monument with paint. Park Police say Deaton was charged with trespassing, tampering and vandalism, (36 CFR2.31). More charges may be on the way.

The press release says the National Park Service conservators have begun the work of removing the paint.

Charges for crimes on federal property are automatically felonies.

Here is the full text of the release:

“FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 21, 2022

Contact: Sgt. Thomas Twiname, [email protected] 202-619-7266

Vandalism arrest at Washington Monument

WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m., the United States Park Police (USPP) arrested Shaun Ray Deaton, 44, of Bloomington, Ind., for allegedly vandalizing the outside base of the Washington Monument with paint. Deaton was charged with trespassing, tampering, and vandalism (36 CFR2.31). This is an initial criminal charge and, as the investigation continues, there may be additional charges.

National Park Service conservators have begun the work to remove the paint. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the USPP Tip Line at 202-379-4877 or [email protected].”