WEST HARTFORD, Conn. — West Hartford police have made an arrest in a case of vandalism that followed a protest last month.
Hicham Talal, 24, of West Haven, was charged with intimidation based on bigotry or bias third degree, and criminal mischief second degree.
Talal was released on a $50,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in Hartford Criminal Court on March 7.
Police said in a statement, "this incident reflects the independent actions of individuals, not the larger group of protestors. There have been more than 60 gatherings, protests, rallies, vigils and marches in West Hartford in recent years. No prior event resulted in injuries, arrests, or property damage."
The CT Palestine Solidarity Coalition said they raised money for Hicham's bond. In a statement they said, "Hicham’s arrest is nothing more than a shameless attempt by the police to criminalize dissent, attack free speech, intimidate our community, and to stifle the powerful and growing movement for Palestinian liberation in Connecticut. We demand all charges against Hicham Talal be immediately dropped."
The building on LaSalle Road in West Hartford Center had red paint thrown on it and handprints over the sign after a rally at the town hall regarding the Israel-Hamas war on Jan. 21.
After a rally was held, a group of protesters walked through the area and posted signs on the building. Later, it was discovered that some group members vandalized the exterior of the building with red paint.
Photos from inside the building show the group outside, and one person appearing to make a handprint on the glass door.
Police said they are still attempting to identify the woman seen in the photo released to the public earlier this month. If any member of the public has information related to this investigation, people are asked to contact West Hartford Police Department at (860) 523-5203, or use the WHPD Tip Line/email at (860) 570-8969.
Doug Stewart is a Senior Digital Content Producer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dstewart@fox61.com.
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