Vandalized SUV after attack last week. Image: tip
A car was vandalized for the second time in a week last night on East Shelby Street, for reasons the owner believes are politically motivated. The Lexus SUV was first striped in purple spray paint sometime during the night of Saturday, October 6th. Last night, the car was hit again with purple spray paint — this time tagged with the words “Obama” and “Romney S.” Seattle Police responded at 12:15 AM and are investigating.
When the owner of the vehicle notified the neighborhood forum of the vandalism last week, several respondents expressed solidarity with the victim while others feared similar retaliation for stating political beliefs contrary to Montlake’s leftward lean. Others still urged caution before condemning the vandalism as politically motivated.
The vehicle belongs to a household with a Mitt Romney campaign sign in the front yard. While this second attack is political, it is not clear from what perspective since both major-party presidential candidate names were part of the vandalism. Worse than involving divisive politics, however, is the intentional harassment of the same vehicle on the block. As always, neighbors are encouraged to report suspicious activity to Seattle Police.
Update: Saturday 12:40pm
Here are photos of last night’s vandalism posted to the Forum:
I think the only debate here is whether they intended to write “Romney sucks” or “Romney sux”. If the perpetrator is caught, I hope there is a heavy dose of public shaming including a mug shot on this blog.
I would not subscribe to a blog the intent of which is public shaming. That being said, it is sad and disappointing that this vandalism occurred and I am glad it is being reported.