Editor's note (6/10/22): Since this story was published on May 18, 2017, Dejong pleaded guilty to one count of criminal mischief, and was ordered to pay $1,240 in fines and to write a letter apologizing for his actions. Dejong said “it was an eye-opening mistake” that taught him to be more respectful of others.
University of New Hampshire police have arrested a student who they say damaged artwork that was meant to show support for students targeted by hate speech in recent days.
Shaan William DeJong, 19, of Hooksett was arrested on a charge of criminal mischief and later released on personal recognizance bail.
Police say DeJong damaged sculpted fists outside of Stoke Hall designed by students in support of those impacted by recent racist incidents on campus.
UNH police chief Paul Dean says investigations into three of those incidents are ongoing. The police department is offering awards of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest.
