PARADISE, Calif. — A man from the Bay Area was arrested in Paradise after being caught spray-painting multiple businesses in town, according to the Paradise Police Department (PPD). Surveillance footage from the Grocery Outlet off Skyway helped identify the suspect, who was seen in a red Ford Mustang wearing a black face mask and black hoodie sweatshirt with a distinct circular-shaped graphic. Additional businesses in the area were also found vandalized with the same circular symbol. The PPD later stopped a red Mustang matching the surveillance footage and found the driver, identified as 39-year-old Brian Orison from San Francisco, wearing the same hoodie. Orison was booked into the Butte County Jail for several charges, including vandalism and resisting arrest.
While speaking with Orison, officers say he claimed he was a ‘city guy’ and didn’t think it was a big deal, reports the PPD. According to the police, Orison’s cellphone, dropped during his arrest, revealed a hand-drawn circular symbol matching the graffiti on the businesses. A search of his vehicle uncovered numerous cans of spray paint and a black face mask. The color of the paint found in Orison’s possession also matched the one used on the vandalized businesses.
The PPD responded to the Grocery Outlet on the reports of spray-painted graffiti on Saturday, Dec. 23. Officers immediately reviewed the store’s surveillance footage, which led them to discover the suspect in the red Mustang. Following this discovery, additional business establishments in the area were found to have been targeted during the same night. The PPD took swift action and managed to apprehend Orison a few hours later after stopping a red Mustang for speeding on Elliot Road.
During the arrest, Orison resisted officers’ directions and had to be removed from his vehicle before being detained. He has been booked into the Butte County Jail, facing charges of resisting arrest, vandalism, and driving with a suspected driver’s license.
While the motive behind Orison’s graffiti-spree remains unclear, it is important to note that the impact on the affected businesses can be significant. Property damage not only affects the visual appeal of establishments but also imposes financial burdens on business owners who need to invest in repairs and restoration.
The Paradise Police Department reminds the community of the importance of reporting any suspicious activities promptly. They have expressed their gratitude to the community members who provided information that assisted in the identification and arrest of the suspect.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging anyone with additional information related to the incidents to come forward. The PPD remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of Paradise and will pursue appropriate legal action against those responsible for causing harm to the community and local businesses.
