Leesburg, VA (September 14, 2020) – The Leesburg Police Department Criminal Investigation Section (CIS) is investigating the destruction of the Town of Leesburg property that occurred Friday evening in the 400 block of South King Street.
On September 11, 2020, at approximately 6:55 PM, Leesburg Police Dispatchers received a report of approximately 20-25 people wearing black masks on the sidewalk in the 400 block of South King Street. The caller advised that one of the subjects was painting a letter on the sidewalk. Leesburg Police Officers responded and located the group who were involved in a protest, with at least one subject utilizing a megaphone. Officers observed “LIBEREN A TODXS” and “FREE THEM ALL!” painted on the public brick sidewalk in large blue letters. A subject who claimed to be the organizer of the group advised that they are protesting for the release of all inmates currently incarcerated in a detention center in Farmville, VA. Officers requested that the group lower their volume, as well as offered the group an opportunity to clean up the paint on the sidewalk. The group claimed that the paint was washable and easily removable, however, Loudoun County Fire Rescue attempted and was unable to remove the paint that evening. The paint has since been removed by the Town of Leesburg Department of Public Works.The incident remains under investigation by the Leesburg Police Department. Anyone who witnessed the incident and who has not already spoken to law enforcement is asked to contact Detective J. Mocello at 703-771-4500 or at jmocello@leesburgva.gov. If you wish to remain anonymous please call the Leesburg Crime Line at 703-443-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent using TIPSUBMIT via text. Text 274637 (CRIMES) and begin your message with LPDTIP.