Arrest made in vandalism at Congressman Andy Barr's Lexington campaign headquarters

Blake Lashelle charged with first-degree criminal mischief in connection with the incident

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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An arrest has been made in connection with vandalism at Congressman Andy Barr's campaign headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky. According to police, officers responded to a report of vandalism at the headquarters on February 26, but the suspect had already left the scene. On Friday, Blake Lashelle was arrested in Madison County on a Fayette County warrant charging him with first-degree criminal mischief.

Why it matters

The vandalism of a congressional campaign headquarters raises concerns about political violence and the security of elected officials' offices, especially in the lead-up to an election. Lexington has seen an increase in property crimes in recent years, though the motives behind this specific incident are still under investigation.

The details

Police say that when officers arrived at Congressman Barr's campaign headquarters in response to the vandalism report, the male suspect was no longer at the scene. No staff members reported any injuries. On Friday, Blake Lashelle was arrested in Madison County on a Fayette County warrant charging him with first-degree criminal mischief in connection with the incident. He is currently being held in the Madison County Detention Center.

  • Police responded to the report of vandalism around 2:45 p.m. on February 26.
  • Blake Lashelle was arrested on Friday in connection with the incident.

The players

Congressman Andy Barr

A Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing Kentucky's 6th congressional district.

Blake Lashelle

The suspect arrested and charged with first-degree criminal mischief in connection with the vandalism at Congressman Barr's campaign headquarters.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Blake Lashelle at his upcoming court appearance.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for increased security and protection for elected officials' offices, especially during politically charged times. It also underscores the broader issue of property crimes and vandalism that Lexington has been grappling with in recent years.