MINNEAPOLIS — A 24-year-old man faces criminal charges after allegedly spray-painting multiple businesses and public buildings along Lake Street during a Friday evening protest against federal immigration (ICE) enforcement following the death of Renee Nicole Good.
Francis Steinhauer was arrested around 7 p.m. after officers observed him vandalizing a Metro Transit bus stopped in traffic, according to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. As protesters marched along the corridor, police said Steinhauer continued spray-painting property including a theater, church, Minneapolis school building, Hennepin County healthcare facility and Target store.
The vandalized properties are located along Lake Street, a commercial corridor that serves as the cultural and economic center of Minneapolis’ immigrant community.
Officers monitoring area security cameras directed patrol units to Steinhauer’s locations. He fled on foot when officers attempted an arrest but was taken into custody shortly afterward.
“This is exactly what I had predicted: damage being done would affect the heart of our immigrant community along Lake Street,” O’Hara said. “The MPD is ready to respond to all criminal activity and find and arrest those who come and commit crimes. I am incredibly grateful to all MPD members who have worked incredibly hard to help maintain peace.”
Steinhauer was booked into Hennepin County Jail on suspicion of damage to property. Meanwhile, thousands of ICE agents continue to sweep across the metro without true deterrence.
