University Police arrested fourth-year College student Zechariah Jones yesterday for an act of vandalism committed Oct. 12 in Fayerweather Hall.
According to University Police Lieut. Melissa Fielding, investigative work including interviews with students, professors and teaching assistants helped police determine Jones broke into a professor's office by kicking open the door.
"We were able to identify him as a potential suspect, and then after speaking to him about the incident, he did talk to us and he did admit to going into the room," Fielding said, adding that the police have "no reason" to believe anyone else was involved.
Fielding chose not to make an official comment at this time as to the motive of the crime.
According to Fielding, Jones was arrested and taken before a magistrate yesterday, where he was released on a $2,500 unsecured bond. Jones is scheduled to appear today before an Albemarle County judge at 10 a.m., where he will face felony charges for breaking and entering.
Fielding called the vandalism a "pretty serious offense," adding it can result in a "stiff punishment."
Although nothing was stolen from the Fayerweather office, Fielding said the court may impose restitution for $250 worth of damage caused to the room.
"That's more than likely something we'll request," she said.
Art History Prof. Howard Singerman, whose office was vandalized, had no comment.
-- compiled by Whitney Gruenloh
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