Suspect in vandalism of political campaign signs across Las Vegas Valley detained

A 73‑year‑old man suspected of damaging political signs throughout the Las Vegas Valley has been taken into custody. David Smith was arrested and booked Monday at the Clark County Detention Center on charges of graffiti and property damage exceeding $5,000, according to a Metropolitan Police Department statement. The vandalism targeted campaign signs displaying the likeness of California Governor Gavin Newsom, which were defaced with swastikas. Earlier last month, a committee supporting Governor Joe Lombardo erected signs across the valley that highlighted Newsom’s endorsement of Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, who is running for governor. The signs, financed by Better Nevada PAC, feature images of several Democrats alongside the text: “Gavin Newsom Endorses Aaron Ford.” “We are grateful to Metro for their efforts to apprehend this suspect,” Better Nevada PAC spokesperson John Burke said successful an email to the Review-Journal. “This hateful awesome has perfectly nary spot successful our nine and we volition proceed to guarantee that each vandalized billboards are afloat repaired.” Metro officials said the investigation into the defacement of other political signs in the valley continues. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Metro detectives at 702‑828‑7777. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 702‑385‑5555. This is a developing story; check back for updates.