Topline:
Los Angeles police announced Tuesday night that they had arrested a man suspected of using a chainsaw to cut down numerous trees lining city sidewalks in downtown.
The destruction: Last weekend, residents awoke to find severed tree trunks toppled onto the streets of downtown L.A. The trees appeared to have been felled by a chainsaw-wielding vandal in an act described by the mayor’s office as “truly beyond comprehension.”
The suspect: Shortly after police released surveillance photos of the man believed to have cut down multiple city trees between April 17 and April 22, the LAPD announced the arrest of 44-year-old Samuel Patrick Groft. Police officials describe him as a resident of Los Angeles.
The arrest: Groft was arrested on suspicion of felony vandalism. Police say they are encouraging the public to provide any further information they might have about the suspect because they believe he could be responsible for other crimes.
Why it matters: Though they are unequally dispersed in L.A., urban trees have been shown to benefit residents by boosting mental health and providing much needed shade during heat waves. Researchers with USC have also found L.A.’s trees absorb more carbon dioxide than previously understood, helping to offset climate-harming emissions.
