CINCINNATI — Authorities have arrested a 26-year-old man following a late-night vandalism incident at the private residence of Vice President JD Vance early Monday morning.
The U.S. Secret Service and Cincinnati Police Department confirmed that William DeFoor was taken into custody shortly after midnight on January 5, 2026.
Incident Details
Investigators allege that DeFoor used a hammer to smash multiple residential windows. Surveillance footage and witness accounts from agents on the scene indicate that four windows were shattered. Additionally, the suspect reportedly vandalized a Secret Service vehicle parked in the driveway before being physically detained by agents.
Casualties: No injuries were reported.
Family Status: Vice President Vance and his family were not present during the incident.
5 They had reportedly returned to Washington, D.C., on Sunday afternoon following a weekend stay in Ohio.6 Scene Evidence: Video footage from the scene captured a heavy police presence, with emergency lights illuminating the gated entrance as officers secured the perimeter and inspected the shattered glass.
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Charges and Investigation
William DeFoor, a resident of nearby Crestview Hills, Kentucky, faces multiple charges including:
Vandalism (Felony count)
Criminal Damaging
Criminal Trespass
Obstructing Official Business
While a specific motive has not yet been established, court records indicate that DeFoor had a previous vandalism charge in 2024 and had been ordered to undergo mental health treatment.P
Response from the Vice President
Vice President Vance addressed the situation Monday morning on social media, expressing gratitude for the law enforcement response.
"I appreciate everyone’s well wishes about the attack at our home," Vance posted. "As far as I can tell, a crazy person tried to break in by hammering the windows. I’m grateful to the Secret Service and the Cincinnati police for responding quickly."
He also requested that the media refrain from extensively broadcasting images of his private residence to protect his children's privacy.
Security Context
The incident occurred just hours after local road closures and checkpoints—originally implemented for the New Year holidays—had been lifted. It underscores the persistent security challenges facing high-profile officials. Following the event, the Secret Service is reportedly coordinating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio to review further charging decisions.
