Virginia Man Arrested for Defacing Monument During DC Netanyahu Protests

Zaid Mohammed Mahdawi faces charges after spray-painting a Columbus statue amid demonstrations against the Israeli Prime Minister's visit.

Mohammed Mahdawi, 26, from Richmond, Virginia, was charged with destruction of federal property after defacing a monument in Washington, D.C.
During the protests against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit on July 24, Mahdawi spray-painted 'HAMAS IS COMIN' on a Columbus statue.
The FBI identified Mahdawi through a tip from a gym acquaintance who recognized him in a police bulletin.
Cleanup and repairs for the vandalism at Columbus Circle, including flag removals and graffiti, cost over $11,000.
Mahdawi is facing a misdemeanor charge that could result in up to one year in prison; a related arrest was made last month involving a Maryland woman.