Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) arrested and charged a Takoma Park man for vandalizing two public libraries with anti-LGBTQ+ graffiti during Capital Pride Week.
Charles Sutherland, 30, is charged with two counts of malicious destruction of property and multiple hate crimes related to defacing the building, according to a PGPD press release. Police say Sutherland has confessed to the incidents.
The vandalism incidents took place at the Greenbelt Branch Library on June 4 and at the New Carrollton Branch Library on June 9. “The preliminary investigation revealed Sutherland spray-painted the word ‘groomer’ on the exteriors of both buildings,” PGPD said.
Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) condemned the defacement of its libraries in a statement and said to be cooperating with police to ensure a full investigation takes place into the possible hate crime.
“The Library will not waver in its commitment to maintaining welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ customers and their allies. The Library is nationally recognized for its outreach and programs in support of LGBTQ+ inclusion through staff leadership and partnerships with a wide range of local government and non-profit partners,” PGCMLS said.
Police encourage anyone with information on Sutherland to call 301-699-2601.
We arrested 30-year-old Charles Sutherland of Takoma Park for vandalizing two public libraries; suspect charged with hate crimes. Read more: https://t.co/tZnrPHFPzu pic.twitter.com/p328j4rwHj
— PGPDNEWS (@PGPDNews) June 16, 2022
