TWO ARRESTS MADE IN MULTIPLE VANDALISMS DOWNTOWN

(COLUMBIA, MO) -

The Columbia Police Department has made two arrests regarding the recent string of graffiti in downtown Columbia.

On 2/25/15, officers of the Downtown Unit observed several areas behind the businesses in the 900 block of East Broadway had been tagged with new graffiti believed to have occurred in the overnight hours. More graffiti was located the following morning, 2/26/15, in the areas of Seventh Street, Eighth Street, and Locust Street. Some of the property vandalized included buildings on the University of Missouri campus. The Downtown Unit responded to approximately 10 reports.

On 2/27/15 at approximately 1:06 A.M., while patrolling the area of vandalisms, the Downtown Unit officers were notified University of Missouri Police Department officers had Nicholas Aaron Clayborn, 25, of Columbia, detained in the area of Seventh Street and Elm Street in reference to the vandalisms. Clayborn was transported to the police department for questioning where he was arrested at 1:28 A.M. for misdemeanor property damage and was released on Municipal summons.

At approximately 1:36 A.M., officers made contact with Henry Crockett Crossland, 19, of Columbia, near the intersection of Eighth Street and Elm Street. Post Miranda, Crossland admitted to completing numerous vandalisms in the area of Seventh Street and Eighth Street. Crossland was arrested for misdemeanor property damage with a bond of $500.00.

Officers believe there may still be other suspects responsible for some of the incidents of graffiti. If you or anyone you know has any information, you are asked to contact the Columbia Police Department. 

Please remember graffiti has an impact on the community we live in. It can:

Decrease property values

Cause substantial losses due to damage

Cause a loss of patronage for the businesses affected

Create a decline in tourism, resulting in a negative impact on the local economy

Lead to bigger issues related to crime in the area if not cleaned up

Be a good neighbor and report any suspicious activity/persons immediately. The Columbia Police Department offers services such as online reporting for instances of graffiti or suspicious activity. Please visit www.GoColumbiaMo.com/Police and click on "Report a Crime Online." You may also contact CrimeStoppers at (573) 875-TIPS to remain anonymous.