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Woman Arrested and Charged in Vandalism of World War II Memorial

Federal prosecutors say the suspect faces two felony counts as officials complete cleanup and veteran groups press for accountability.

Melissa L. Farris was arrested after being accused of vandalizing the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. (U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro)
Melissa L. Farris was arrested after being accused of vandalizing the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. (U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro)
WASHINGTON,DC - AUGUST 13: Vandalism can be seen at the World War II Memorial on August 13, 2026 in Washington D.C. Spray paint on the walls of the memorial states, "Clean hands Dirty $", and soap bubble over in the fountain below the graffiti. (Photo by Tyler M. Andrews/The Washington Post via Getty Images)
Vandalism at the World War II Memorial. (Andrew Leyden via X)

Overview

  • Photos and video showed soap poured into the memorial fountain and red and green spray paint on the Atlantic Pavilion, with the phrase "Clean hands dirty $" visible after the act on Thursday.
  • U.S. Park Police responded, crews power-washed the site and reopened the memorial after an Interior Department investigation began and restoration work started.
  • U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced on Friday that Melissa L. Farris was taken into custody and will be charged with depredation of U.S. property and destruction of veterans' memorials, each count carrying up to 10 years in prison.
  • Veteran groups and the nonprofit caretakers condemned the defacement as deeply disrespectful and demanded swift legal action, while President Trump publicly urged authorities to find the perpetrators.
  • The case adds to scrutiny of recent National Mall incidents this year, including the Lincoln Reflecting Pool dispute, and could prompt closer oversight of memorial maintenance, repair contracts and future prosecutions.