Mitchell Lawson

EPPD photo

EAST PROVIDENCE — East Providence Police officers arrested a city many on several charges, including vandalism of the department headquarters, after responding to an incident in the early morning hours of Friday, April 16.

Mitchell C. Lawson, 23, of East Providence was booked for the following: Two Counts of Vandalism; Obstruction; Disorderly Conduct; and Driving With an Expired License.

According to the police report, at around 3 a.m. last Friday morning a person was observed via video surveillance vandalizing the front of the East Providence Police Department headquarters, located at 750 Waterman Ave. 

It was determined the suspect spray painted the EPPD sign at the front its headquarters and a section of the building. The suspect also threw two large rocks at the front entry glass doors, shattering two panes. He then fled in a vehicle.

EPPD dispatchers broadcast a description of the suspect and his vehicle. Minutes later, Officer Robert Fontaine observed a vehicle matching the description in the vicinity of Commercial Way, which is a short distance from the police station. Officer Fontaine conducted a motor vehicle stop.

During the motor vehicle stop, officers observed a can of black spray paint, along with a pair of rubber gloves inside the car. After further investigation, the operator of the vehicle, later identified as Mr. Lawson, was arrested.

The police report indicated the motivation for the crime appeared to be associated with the recent national headlines involving law enforcement for the shooting deaths of two young African-American males by officers outside of Minneapolis, Minn., and Chicago. Police said  the incident locally seemed  isolated.

“We have always enjoyed an excellent relationship with our community and we look forward to continuing and building upon that relationship,” EPPD Chief William Nebus said in response to the event in city.