Man arrested after vandalizing King Center in Atlanta, police say
A man was arrested Saturday, accused of vandalizing the King Center in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, police said.
Atlanta officers were called to the center at 449 Auburn Avenue around 4:30 a.m. A security guard told police a man urinated in the reflective pool and stomped on the Eternal Flame, which authorities said caused “significant” damage.
The suspect was identified by police as 26-year-old Brent Jones. He faces charges of second-degree criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, public indecency and obstruction of law enforcement.
According to an arrest warrant, Jones was arguing with another man before becoming “irate” and damaging parts of the King Center.
The Eternal Flame, according to the King Center’s website, symbolizes the “continuing effort to realize Dr. King’s dream of the ‘Beloved Community,’ which was his vision for a world of justice, peace and equality for all mankind.” A gate around it prohibits people from getting too close.
The security guard told police he asked the suspect to leave the gated area, but that Jones only further damaged the Eternal Flame, causing about $3,000 of damage, the warrant states.
A spokesperson for the King Center called the incident “minor” and confirmed the venue remains open.
“While there was minimal damage to the Eternal Flame and the surrounding area, The King Center remains fully open to visitors,” the spokesperson said. “The Eternal Flame still burns with love, and we continue to welcome everyone with open arms and gratitude for the incredible support of our beloved community. The dream lives on.”
Police did not provide a motive in the incident.
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