A woman has been arrested and charged with two felonies in connection with the vandalism of the National World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro announced the arrest of Melissa L. Farris on Friday. Authorities say Farris is accused of spray-painting graffiti on the memorial and pouring a substance into the fountain that caused it to fill with bubbles.
The vandalism occurred on Thursday. Red paint was dumped on the walls and floor of the Atlantic Pavilion, and graffiti that appeared to read "Clean hands dirty $" was left on the structure. Soap or a similar substance was added to the fountain, producing extensive bubbles. A video circulating on social media shows a woman applying spray paint to the memorial.
U.S. Park Police responded to the scene and closed portions of the memorial during the investigation. The Interior Department described the act as a "disgusting" and an "utter disgrace," vowing to identify and hold the perpetrator accountable.
The World War II Memorial honors the 16 million Americans who served in the armed forces during World War II, as well as the more than 400,000 who died. Officials and visitors have expressed strong condemnation of the damage to the site.
Farris faces felony charges related to the vandalism. Pirro noted the personal significance of the memorial, referencing family members who served in the war. The investigation continues as authorities review evidence including video footage.
The incident has drawn widespread attention and outrage from the public and officials alike.
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