Suspect who Vandalized Home of JD Vance Identified as 26-year-old William DeFoor

Man Arrested for Allegedly Vandalizing Vice President JD Vance's Cincinnati Home

Cincinnati, OH — January 5, 2026

A 26-year-old man was arrested early Monday morning after allegedly trespassing on and damaging the Cincinnati residence of Vice President JD Vance, authorities said.

William DeFoor faces one count each of obstructing official business, criminal damaging or endangering, criminal trespass, and vandalism, according to court records. Three of the charges are misdemeanors, while vandalism is classified as a fifth-degree felony.

The incident occurred shortly after midnight at Vance's home in the East Walnut Hills neighborhood. U.S. Secret Service agents, who provide protection for the vice president, detained DeFoor after spotting him on the property via security footage and in person.

According to arrest reports, DeFoor was observed walking onto the grounds without permission and damaging four windows on the residence, as well as a vehicle. Secret Service personnel quickly apprehended him, and Cincinnati police took him into custody.

"The U.S. Secret Service is coordinating with the Cincinnati Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office as charging decisions are reviewed," a Secret Service spokesperson said in a statement.

Vice President Vance and his family were not at the home at the time of the incident. Vance had been in Cincinnati the previous week but departed Sunday afternoon.

This is not DeFoor's first encounter with the law. Court documents indicate he previously pleaded guilty to vandalism charges in connection with damages to a business in the Hyde Park area.

DeFoor is being held at the Hamilton County Justice Center and is scheduled for arraignment Tuesday. Authorities have recommended a high bond due to his prior criminal history.

The investigation remains ongoing, and federal charges could be considered given the involvement of a protected official's residence. 17GEN4.com