Middlesex DA: Two Men Arraigned In Connection With Burlington Mosque Vandalism

WOBURN, MA – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan has announced that, Cameron Cappella, 18, of Burlington, and Derrik Demone, 18, of Burlington, were charged with malicious destruction of property over $250 and tagging property today in Woburn District Court.

Judge Cesar Archilla released the defendants on their own recognizance and ordered the defendants to stay away from the Islamic Center of Burlington, to stay away from and have no contact with the victims of the crime, any potential witnesses, and from each other. The defendants are subject to a curfew from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. The next scheduled hearing in this case is Friday, December 11.

“The investigation is ongoing and active at this time,” said District Attorney Ryan. “The defendants were arraigned today on charges of malicious destruction of property and tagging based on the evidence. Additional charges may be considered as the investigation progresses.”

On Sunday, November 1, at approximately 1:45 a.m. Burlington Police responded to a report of malicious damage to the Islamic Center of Burlington located on Lexington Street in Burlington. Upon arrival, authorities discovered that “U.S.A.” had been spray painted multiple times on the exterior of the building as well as on the Islamic Center of Burlington sign on the roadway. Authorities also noted that multiple eggs had been smashed around the property. Video surveillance from the mosque obtained by authorities allegedly showed two suspects approaching the building and remaining there for approximately 20 minutes.

Burlington Police apprehended the defendants at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Monday, November 2.

The case is being jointly investigated by the Burlington Police Department and the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.

These charges are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

This prosecutor assigned to the hearing today was Assistant District Attorney A.J. Chalifour.

(NOTE: The above press release is from the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.)

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