LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — A judge has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of the man accused of vandalizing dozens of political campaign signs around the valley Thursday morning.
David Lawrence Smith Jr., 62, was arrested on Monday, Aug. 24, at the Primm Valley Casino on a felony charge of defacing property over $5,000.
MORE ON FOX5: Masked assault suspect from Philadelphia appears in court after Las Vegas arrest
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Counter Terrorism Section says they launched an investigation after receiving reports of swastikas being spray-painted over the face of California Governor Gavin Newsom on at least 60 signs.
The signs were paid for by the Better Nevada PAC, which has donated money for multiple campaigns for Republican candidates in the state, including Governor Joe Lombardo.
According to the arrest report, the Better Nevada PAC estimated the total property damage and replacement labor costs at $6,373.43, which includes $4,573.43 for printing and $1,800 for labor.
Smith was located by detectives involved in the investigation after he was spotted in his vehicle on several surveillance cameras and license plate readers. His vehicle was also traced to the locations of several defaced signs.
According to court records, Smith was released from custody after his arrest, but bail had not been set. Judge Eric Goodman issued the bench warrant after he failed to appear on Thursday.
Following the warrant, Smith will be held without bail until his next court hearing, which is set for October 22.
Copyright 2026 KVVU. All rights reserved.
