Arrest made in ongoing vandalism investigation in Decorah

The Decorah Police Department and the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office were notified Sept. 17 of multiple buildings in Decorah, as well as areas on the bike path, skate park and streets/alleys that were defaced and vandalized by spray paint during the overnight hours. An arrest has been made in the investigation.

Initial reports indicated buildings were in the area of Broadway and Winnebago Street. The vandalism was reported at the Decorah Lutheran Church and the United Church of Christ, which has a prominent display at the front of the church with five rainbow color doors labeled with the words “God’s doors are open to all.” There was also graffiti on the property of the courthouse across the street.

Decorah law enforcement agencies reported the vandalism included hate speech that was both shocking and criminal. The reports of these crimes were taken seriously and both agencies worked diligently together, investigating, interviewing, serving search warrants and collecting evidence in this case.

Suspects were quickly identified.

As of Tuesday evening, an individual has been charged in this matter, at this time. Caeden-Philip Andrew Kinyua Nyanjenga, age18, of Decorah, has been charged with the following: Criminal Mischief 2nd Degree (Class D Felony) Criminal Mischief 3rd-Hate Crime (D Felony) Trespass with Intent to Commit a Hate Crime (Aggravated Misdemeanor).

The investigation into this matter continues, with additional arrests anticipated. Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Decorah Police Department at 563-382-3997 or the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office at 563-382-4268. Additional information will be released as warranted.

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Brenda A'Hearn
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1 year ago

Hope you catch all who participated in this crime