GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – The Gainesville Police Department (GPD) has made an arrest in the case of vandalism at City Hall.

In March, a vandal struck three times at the City Hall Complex. In addition to breaking windows at the Old Library Building and the mayor’s office, the vandal left two racist and threatening notes behind.

In March, Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward says someone broke into his office on the ground floor of city hall and left behind a hate-driven note. Courtesy: City of Gainesville

On Friday, Aug. 23, GPD arrested 42-year-old James Dewar and charged him in connection to the crime.

“These events were troubling. They raised safety concerns for all City employees and their families,” said Mayor Harvey Ward and City Manager Cynthia Curry in a joint written statement. “The security and well-being of our organization and the community we serve is of paramount importance. Every neighbor and visitor deserves to feel safe and protected in City buildings and on City grounds.”

In March, Gainesville Mayor Ward said this was not the first time the City Hall Plaza had been vandalized and someone left behind a hate-filled note. Courtesy: City of Gainesville

The city says additional security measures at City Hall and the Old Library Building which were already planned and are unrelated to the vandalism are nearly complete. The city says the measures add another layer of safety to our downtown workplace.

“We give you our full commitment, on behalf of the City of Gainesville, that we will continue to protect and support every member of our community,” the statement said.