Federal authorities are promising swift action after the Senator Paul Simon Federal Building in Carbondale was defaced during a gathering Tuesday evening, June 10th. The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have launched an investigation and say those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
In a statement released Wednesday, U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft condemned the act, calling it targeted vandalism and stressing that while free expression is protected, criminal behavior is not.
“There are bright lines separating where speech ends and criminal conduct begins,” Weinhoeft said. “Those who committed this targeted vandalism to federal property will be pursued and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
The building, located in downtown Carbondale since 1978, houses several federal offices and employs dozens of local residents. Officials have not released the full extent of the damage, which is still being assessed.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher J.S. Johnson echoed the U.S. Attorney’s stance, noting the FBI supports peaceful First Amendment activity but will not tolerate criminal acts.
“The individuals who defaced the building last night will be identified and charged, as well as those who aid and abet them,” Johnson said. “Federal employees should be able to go to work without fear or intimidation.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) and reference “Carbondale Illinois Federal Building.”
The investigation is ongoing.
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