BOISE, Idaho — An 18-year-old woman was arrested for spray painting the front of the Idaho State Capitol during a peaceful demonstration on June 3. Deisy Shannon Heatherly, a Boise resident, was arrested without incident and the arrest did not disrupt anybody peacefully protesting.
"The Idaho Capitol building is a symbol of hope and resolve to all Idahoans and a backdrop for dozens of peaceful protests each year. The voices of peaceful protesters cannot be overshadowed by the criminal acts of the very few. Yet those who intentionally do damage to the house owned by all the people of Idaho will be called to account for their actions." Said ISP Captain Matthew Sly.
Around 7 p.m. on the 3rd, as the first few people began to arrive at the Statehouse, a citizen alerted Capitol Mall Security after finding blue spray paint on the columns and front facade on the Jefferson Street side of the Capitol. Idaho State Police with help from Boise Police, found evidence that led to the identification of Heatherly. Heatherly was found in the area of the Statehouse and taken into custody. She was charged with Felony Malicious Injury to Property and the estimated damage done to the Statehouse in in excess of $1,000.
The Idaho State Police have also identified two teenagers who appear to have been with Heatherly when the damage was done. As the investigation continues, additional charges could be filed against the involved juveniles.
In a separate incident later in the protest, an Idaho State Police Trooper saw a woman take a flag out of the hands of another protester. The flag was one of the several specialty flags carried during the demonstration. Madison Lee Allen, 19 of Boise is charged with misdemeanor Petit Theft, Misdemeanor possession of marijuana, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia and misdemeanor resisting and obstructing officers.
Idaho State Police Colonel Kedrick Wills has been at the Statehouse during several demonstrations and says the vast majority of those assembled were respectful and cooperative with Troopers and Officers.
"Idahoans have a long history of peaceful assembly at our State Capitol and our Troopers have protected tens of thousands of protesters over the years allowing their voices to be heard. It's the Idaho way to treat others with respect and enact change through cooperation. We appreciate those who are showing that respect to their fellow protesters, the community, and to the Troopers and Officers tasked with protecting them." Said Colonel Wills.
