Tacoma, WA – A weeklong string of vandalism in University Place led to the arrest of a 48-year-old man after Pierce County deputies say he allegedly damaged vehicles, porches, yards, and outdoor fixtures across a neighborhood near the 4200 block of Robin Road West.
According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, reports began coming in between November 13 and November 18 as residents documented extensive property damage. Surveillance footage reportedly showed a man using a bat to break lights, remove bulbs from porches, damage yard items, and prowl through private property.
Deputies said that on November 13, several residents found vehicle tires slashed and porch decorations destroyed. A neighbor also reported smashed pumpkins and damage to their front entryway. By November 15, additional residents said their mailboxes had been rummaged through and light fixtures on their homes were broken. Several parked vehicles had also been damaged, authorities said.
Investigators eventually identified a suspect believed to live just down the street. When deputies attempted contact on November 18, they said the man could be heard inside but refused to exit the home. Deputies later observed a garbage bin in the driveway filled with light fixtures and yard items that appeared to match stolen property.
After applying for a seizure of persons warrant, deputies made a second attempt. When the suspect again allegedly refused to come out, deputies used a breaching tool to enter the residence. The man was taken into custody without further incident and booked into the Pierce County Jail on malicious mischief in the first degree and theft in the first degree.
Deputies noted a possible mental health component and encouraged those experiencing a crisis to seek help before behavior escalates into criminal activity.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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