On New Year's Day, Los Angeles City Hall was subjected to vandalism, leading to the arrest of Jose Gonzalez Chavez, as reported by CBS News. The Los Angeles Police Department stated that the incident occurred before 6:30 p.m. when the suspect allegedly entered the building by breaking a glass door and proceeded to the third floor, vandalizing multiple areas.
The LAPD noted that Chavez was detained upon leaving the building and faces charges for felony vandalism. A news release from the department signified the intent to present Chavez's case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for filing consideration, as gleaned from a KTLA report. Despite extensive damage, including compromised windows, a display case, and computer equipment, Mayor Karen Bass conveyed that there was no indication that the vandalism was a hate crime, even though the historic Katowicz menorah was among the items damaged.
The arrest was officially announced by the LAPD's Media Relations Division, which confirmed that Chavez was booked under booking number 7154806. Information regarding this incident was publicly sought, with contact details provided for both Central Division Detectives and LA Regional Crime Stoppers, as per the LAPD's post on their social media.
LAPD News Release: Arrest in City Hall Vandalism pic.twitter.com/2rHdY0M7kS
— LAPD PIO (@LAPDPIO) January 4, 2026
Mayor Bass's reaction was particularly solemn regarding the menorah's desecration, emphasizing its symbolic importance to the community. She stated, "I was deeply disturbed that this historic menorah was damaged," in a statement obtained by CBS News. The mayor also shared that she reached out personally to the Cunin family, who have annually loaned the menorah to the city. In addition, Bass announced that Chavez will be evaluated for mental health concerns, and a full review of City Hall's security measures was already to be promptly undertaken.
