Burbank man pleads not guilty in swastika vandalism case
An 18-year-old Burbank man pleaded not guilty Thursday to 10 counts of vandalism that caused more than $400 in damage after he allegedly spray-painted swastikas and derogatory comments on homes and vehicles in Burbank earlier this week, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office.
Drew Benda was taken into custody on suspicion of felony vandalism following an incident on Tuesday in which police responded to reports of a young man vandalizing properties near Walnut Avenue and Bel Aire Drive.
Within a span of six blocks, Benda allegedly used spray paint to paint swastikas and derogatory comments on 13 trucks, garage doors and walls causing thousands of dollars of damage, police said.
Burbank Police Sgt. Darin Ryburn said police found no indication that Benda’s crimes were targeted at any specific person.
Benda is being held in lieu of $50,000 bail.
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Video: Man arrested for allegedly spray-painting swastikas on vehicles, homes