CPD investigating several vandalism incidents, including office of Rep. Todd Rutherford

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– The Columbia Police Department is investigating an incident of vandalism at the law office of Representative Todd Rutherford. Rutherford says the front door to his law office on Park Street in downtown Columbia was vandalized Monday. The lawmaker posted pictures of the smashed windows to his Twitter account.

Rutherford also says his office received a threatening note last week, with no return address. The letter features photocopies of two bumper stickers featuring confederate flags with the words, “where are our rights” and “you next.”

Letter sent to Representative Rutherford
Source: Todd Rutherford

Representative Rutherford released a statement on the incident that reads,

“yesterday, my office was vandalized. On a day that celebrates the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., our peace was shattered by bricks thrown through our front windows. We don’t know who did this or why they did this. It may have been a random act of vandalism or it may have been related to the ongoing threats against myself and other lawmakers. I want to be clear: I will not be deterred by any threat. No brick, letter, or phone call will cause me to change course or back down from my beliefs. Thank you to everyone who reached out — I am really touched by the concern from my colleagues, friends, and neighbors. Thank you to the Columbia Police Department for their assistance. And finally, thank you to my staff at the Rutherford Law Firm for handling this with such poise and professionalism.”

Columbia Police point out that there were two other similar incidents of vandalism in downtown Columbia both on the night before and the same night Representative Rutherford’s office was vandalized. Windows were broken at Soda City Furniture on Main Street on the 17th, and vehicles had windows shattered on the 18th on Freed Street.

If you have any information on these incidents, call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.