Issaquah man arrested in connection with series of hate-based graffiti

Police made an arrest in a series of hate-based graffiti incidents that occurred across Issaquah since December 2024.

A 22-year-old man from Issaquah was arrested in connection with the vandalism of multiple locations, the Issaquah Police Department (IPD) reported Wednesday.

Swastikas, antisemitic messages, and other hateful symbols and slurs appeared on public trails, tunnels, and underpasses.

The man is believed to be responsible for at least a dozen separate incidents, officers stated in a Facebook post.

“These acts of vandalism targeted not just property, but the safety and dignity of our entire community,” IPD wrote.

Police department: ‘Hate has no home in Issaquah’

IPD emphasized that the hateful acts have no place in the Issaquah community.

“Hate has no home in Issaquah,” the department wrote. “We remain firmly committed to protecting every member of our community and ensuring our public spaces are safe, respectful, and inclusive for all, regardless of race, religion, background, or identity. This arrest marks an important step toward accountability and healing.”

IPD recognized the impact the incidents have had on the community and showed appreciation for those who reported them. It also expressed gratitude to the parks department and to the officers who have worked to bring the case to a close.

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