MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A Northeast Wisconsin lawmaker says his state Capitol office was damaged during overnight protests.
State Rep. David Steffen, R-Howard, says an “unidentified projectile” crashed through a window early Monday morning. The office is on the building’s ground floor and is about 10 feet away from a sidewalk.
“If this was during the day and one window over, that object would have hit me or my desk, no question,” Steffen said in a news release. “I will always support the right to peacefully protest, however, many of the recent actions are neither peaceful nor a protest – they are unlawful acts by criminal actors. No society can survive without law and order. We must retain civility and lawfulness to ensure these gatherings have the desired outcomes in public policy and societal change.”
The window has been boarded up. Steffen’s office has been cleaned and business resumed on Monday.
“I’m pretty sure my office was chosen due to its location, not its occupant.” Steffen’s statement continued. “My office was an easy, convenient target, which is obviously concerning. The safety of our capitol staff and the security of this historic building should not be jeopardized.” said Steffen. If we can’t prevent an attack on a building that has its own dedicated police force, how safe will Madison’s residents feel?”
Steffen says Capitol Police are investigating.
Fifteen people were arrested in the overnight protests. Police fired tear gas as protesters threw rocks and damaged store windows.
