Bridgeport Woman Accused Of Writing 'Save Gaza' On Crosswalk: Police

BRIDGEPORT, CT — A Bridgeport woman was arrested by Westport police on Friday, after authorities said she damaged a crosswalk in town when she wrote "Save Gaza" on it.

The woman turned herself in, and was issued a misdemeanor summons on a charge of criminal mischief. She was released and is scheduled to appear in Stamford Superior Court on June 20.

The incident occurred Thursday night, when police were contacted that a woman was seen writing the phrase on a crosswalk on the Post Road East near Main Street in downtown Westport.

"This action caused damage to the crosswalk, which resulted in temporary repairs being conducted last evening," wrote Westport Police Lt. Matthew Gouveia in a statement. "The Town Highway Department then responded earlier today to properly address the matter."

Officers conducted an investigation, which led to the woman being identified as the suspect who had damaged the roadway.

"The Westport Police Department is committed to protecting the public’s right to exercise their constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of speech," Gouveia said. "Freedom of speech, however, does not include the destruction or defacement of public or private property.

"The Town respects and encourages the citizenry to express their opinions regardless of point of view, however this must be done in a peaceful manner with respect to other’s personal safety and property."