Woman arrested for destroying flags

Arif [FCPD]

A 39-year-old Annandale woman was arrested Aug. 26 for destroying American flags and committing other vandalism at private homes in the Annandale area, the Fairfax County Police Department reports.

Maria Arif was charged with larceny, two counts of destruction of property, and two counts of mutilating a U.S. flag. She was taken to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center where she posted bond.

There were 12 incidents on multiple streets, mostly on or near Murray Lane in Broyhill Crest and Crossman Street in the Wynfield neighborhood, says 2nd. Lt. Trevor Speranko.

Two flags were cut or slashed, and lights and yard ornaments were destroyed. The first incident occurred on Aug. 19. Arif was arrested after a neighbor observed her during the day on Aug. 26, called the police, and gave officers a good description, Speranko says. He calls it “a good example of the community coming together and pointing her out to officers in the neighborhood.”

According to a notice from the Wynfield community association, a resident had two interactions with Arif. In the first instance, Arif asked for and received water, then moved on. The second time, the resident observed Arif slashing a neighbor’s flag. 

There may be additional victims in this case. If you believe you were a victim, contact the FCPD non-emergency number, 703-691-2131, to file a report.