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Arrest Made in New Year’s Day Break-In That Damaged L.A. City Hall and Menorah

Officials say there is no indication the menorah damage was a hate crime.

Overview

  • LAPD says the intruder broke a locked glass door at the First Street entrance and vandalized third-floor areas, including the hallway and rotunda.
  • Damaged items included windows, a glass display case, computer equipment, and the Katowicz menorah on display in the rotunda.
  • Police identified the suspect as Jose Gonzalez Chavez, who was taken into custody without incident and booked on suspicion of felony vandalism.
  • Detectives will present the case to the Los Angeles County district attorney for filing consideration, and a City Hall security review is underway.
  • Authorities said the suspect is being evaluated for mental health concerns and asked the public to share tips with LAPD or Crime Stoppers.