A man is facing multiple charges after allegedly attempting to break into the Ohio residence of United States Vice President JD Vance using a hammer, authorities reported Monday.
Midnight Incident at Vice Presidential Residence
According to the U.S. Secret Service, the incident occurred around midnight on Monday at the Vance family home, located just east of downtown Cincinnati. Agents assigned to protect the residence reported hearing a loud noise and subsequently discovered an individual brandishing a hammer who had broken a window and was attempting to gain entry.
The suspect, identified as 26-year-old William Defoor from Crestview Hills, Kentucky, was taken into custody at the scene. Officials stated that Vance, his wife, and their children were not home at the time of the alleged attack, having returned to Washington, D.C. following the holiday period.
Suspect Charged and Previous Court Involvement
In addition to damaging the home's windows, Defoor is accused of causing damage to a Secret Service vehicle while driving up the driveway. He is scheduled for arraignment on Tuesday on misdemeanor charges including vandalism, criminal trespass, criminal damaging, and obstruction of official business.
Court records reveal that Defoor had a prior encounter with the legal system in 2024 related to a vandalism charge. As part of that case, he agreed to undergo treatment through the Mental Health Court system.
Vance Responds, Thanks Law Enforcement
Vice President Vance addressed the incident on the social media platform X, expressing gratitude for the swift response from law enforcement. "I appreciate everyone's well wishes about the attack at our home," Vance wrote. "As far as I can tell, a crazy person tried to break in by hammering the windows. I'm grateful to the secret service and the Cincinnati police for responding quickly."
The home, situated in one of Cincinnati's oldest neighborhoods, has been a site for periodic protests. Last spring, demonstrators gathered outside and clashed with the vice president.
The Secret Service continues its investigation into the motives behind the attempted break-in. The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by high-profile political figures and their families, even at their private residences.
