Crime & Safety

Capitol Campus Vandalized, Burien Man Arrested

Washington State Patrol said a Burien man was cited after several government buildings were damaged in Olympia.

Investigators said several items were broken and landscaping was damaged at three buildings.
Investigators said several items were broken and landscaping was damaged at three buildings. (Department of Enterprise Services)

OLYMPIA, WA — A Burien man was cited and released over the weekend after several buildings on the capitol campus were vandalized, according to Washington State Patrol. Troopers were called to the Temple of Justice after someone reported damaged items, including a broken lamp. Investigators said they found a man nearby who was caught on surveillance breaking the items and sticking a butter knife into a door frame.

Troopers said further investigation revealed damage at other buildings on the campus, including at the old GA building and the Helen Sommers Building, where WSP is headquartered. Broken items included a fire alarm panel and a key card reader. Troopers said some landscaping was also damaged.

Once the investigation is complete, charges will be forwarded to the Thurston County Prosecutor's Office. State officials are working on an estimated cost for repairs.

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