Henrico Police charge 3 juveniles in West End vandalism cases

Henrico Police have charged three juveniles in connection with two separate incidents of vandalism that occurred in the West End during the past week.

Police filed charges of felony vandalism against one juvenile in connection with incidents that occurred during the overnight hours of May 9 in the Regency mall and Farmington areas. Racist graffiti was sprayed on and near homes and street signs in that case.

Two other juveniles are facing a series of charges in connection with vandalism that occurred May 12 at Godwin High School. In that case, vandals spray-painted threatening messages and images on the building suggesting that a school shooting might take place.

The two juveniles both face charges of misdemeanor trespassing, felony vandalism and conspiracy to commit a felony. Police determined that there was no credible threat to the school or its students.

“These developments would not be possible without the strong partnership that our school division has with Henrico Police," Henrico Schools Superintendent Amy Cashwell said in a statement. "Because of this partnership, schools are among the safest places for students to be. . . At the same time, we continue to take this matter seriously. School administration will continue to handle the matter directly with these minors and their families in accordance with our Code of Student Conduct, including the possibility of severe consequences.”

Said police Chief Humberto Cardounel, Jr." “These types of hateful and destructive acts that create division and fear within our community will not be tolerated and will in fact continue to be investigated as crimes. Make no mistake, we take this seriously and our resolve to investigate these incidents and hold those accountable is unwavering."