Man Accused of Going on Tree-Killing Spree with Chainsaw Arrested 

Man Arrested for Tree Vandalism in Los Angeles

A man has been accused of going on a tree-killing spree using a chainsaw in downtown Los Angeles, the Westlake District, and Glassell Park. Samuel Patrick Groft was recently arrested in connection with this environmental crime. The arrest was announced by the Los Angeles Police Department on April 22. Samuel Patrick Groft, an LA resident, was taken into custody around 4:30 p.m. local time that same day by LAPD Rampart Detectives near Custer Avenue and West Sunset Boulevard. His bail has been set at $150,000 according to online jail records reviewed by PEOPLE.

The arrest of Groft followed a community alert issued by the LAPD, cautioning the public to avoid approaching the suspect. LAPD authorities found evidence linking Groft to multiple incidents of tree destruction between April 17 and 22. The trees were felled at different times of the day, with incidents reported at the 500 block of North Broadway Avenue around midnight, and at the 300 block of Treadwell Street around 2:00 p.m. As per KNBC, police estimated that a total of 11 trees were illegally cut down, with damage costs reaching approximately $347,000.

LAPD Commander Lilian Carranza expressed astonishment over the bizarre crime, stating, “I have never seen anyone go and attack trees, especially around the time of Earth Day.” The LAPD is currently investigating the motive behind Groft’s actions. During a press conference, Mayor Karen Bass condemned the incident as “truly beyond comprehension.” She assured that city crews are evaluating the damage and planning to replant the lost trees.

In a move to enforce accountability, City Councilwoman Ysabel Jurado introduced a motion to the council’s public works and public safety committees aimed at increasing fines for individuals found guilty of harming or destroying city trees. The LAPD has urged anyone with information on the tree-cutting incidents to contact the Rampart Burglary Theft Detectives at (213) 484-3490. Calls outside business hours can be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.

This shocking act of vandalism has raised concerns among the community and city officials in Los Angeles. The calculated destruction of trees, especially around Earth Day, has sparked outrage and calls for justice. As investigations continue, the public awaits further updates on the case to understand the motives behind Groft’s alleged tree-killing spree.

The arrest of Samuel Patrick Groft serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our environment and preserving nature from such senseless acts of destruction. The community’s swift response and collaboration with law enforcement underline the collective commitment to safeguarding our urban green spaces for future generations to enjoy.