Protesters deface Statehouse - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Lynsay Clutter/Eyewitness News and release from Indiana State Police

Indianapolis, June 4 - A group of at least 24 protesters for hire were confronted by Capitol Police Officers after spray painted statements and symbols of protest about the proposed I-69 corridor were discovered on the north exterior and interior of the Statehouse.

When the Capitol Police Officer attempted to get the large unruly group to stop and remain in place so he could investigate the crime that had occurred, the protestors ignored the officer's request and continued chanting against I-69 and beating of makeshift drums as they tried to leave the area as a group.

Additional police officers from the Indiana State Police, Indianapolis Police, IUPUI Police departments and Park Rangers responded to the scene and a total of 24 people were arrested.  Of those arrested, 23 have been tentatively identified. 

One person physically assaulted a Capitol Police Officer by jumping on his back and was subdued by an IPD officer with a Taser.  That person refused to identify herself and has been arrested for battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct. 

The other 23 people have been arrested for disorderly conduct.

Over the course of the investigation cameras were recovered from several of the arrested persons. 

A search warrant will be obtained to examine the pictures on the cameras in hopes of identifying those specific persons responsible for defacing the Statehouse. 

Concerned citizens that saw the defacing of the Statehousel as it occurred also took pictures, which have been provided to State Capitol Police investigators. 

First Sergeant David Bursten, spokesperson for the Indiana State Police, was at the scene of the arrest (West Street  & Virginia Street) and also responded to the State Capitol. 

"We're still very early in the investigation, but it's becoming clear this was a group of "protestors for hire" that likely don't have a specific interest in I-69", said Bursten.  

Bursten concluded with, "It's a shame when a group of misguided young people confuse the difference with the right to peacefully protest versus crossing the line to criminal conduct and damaging property that all of us, as taxpayers, have paid for and will pay today to repair the damage done."