Posted on 07/19/2007 6:49:03 AM PDT by freespirited
When Gareth Groves brought home his massive new Hummer, he knew his environmentally friendly neighbors disapproved. But he didn't expect what happened next. The sport utility vehicle was parked for five days on the street before two masked men smashed the windows, slashed the tires and scratched into the body: "FOR THE ENVIRON."
"The thought of somebody vandalizing it never crossed my mind," said Gareth Groves, who lives near American University in Northwest Washington. "I've kind of been in shock."
Police said they see small acts of vandalism in the area from time to time, but they have not seen anything so severe, or with such a clear political message, in recent years.
"This seems to be an isolated event," Cmdr. Andy Solberg said.
Investigators said they are searching for the vandals but don't have many leads. Witnesses said they saw two men smash up the seven-foot-tall SUV early Monday and then run off.
Now, as Groves contemplates what to do with the remains of his $38,000 Hummer, he has had to deal with a number of people who have driven by the crime scene and glared at him in smug satisfaction.
"I'd say one in five people who come by have that 'you-got-what-you-deserve' look," said his friend Andy Sexton.
Neighbor Lucille Liem, who owns a Prius hybrid, said that a common sentiment in the neighborhood is that large vehicles such as the Hummer are impractical and a strain on the Earth.
"The neighborhood in general is very concerned with the environment," said Liem, whose Prius gets about 48 miles a gallon compared with the Hummer's 14 miles a gallon. "It's more liberal leaning. It's ridiculous to be driving a Hummer."
Liem quickly added that she does not condone violence.
I’m very leery when I meet someone who espouses to be “tolerant” and “open minded”. These are the guys who key your car for having the “wrong” bumper sticker.
Odd how some juxtapose terrorism and bumper sticker in that sort of environment.
I’m sure his insurance will pay to repair the damage. Next, put a surveillance camera on the H2 and catch the bastards next time. Better yet camp out in the H2 with a baseball bat and some mace.
tres should read ....tires....my bad!
Yeah, take it out on someone wh o was likely not involved in the vandalism. That’s bright.
Self-righteous morally smug criminals still belong in jail.
I listened to Mr Groves' interview on the Chris Core radio show yesterday on WMAL630. His "massive new Hummer" is a used H2. Are these idiots at AP to be believed about anything?
Princess?
The crowd they hang with?
Oh come on, you’ve got to be kidding me, did that really happen? I think I’ve heard it all now. Oh, if only you could have taken a picture what fun we could have with that.
Also seen that referred to as the ‘footprint of the American Chicken.’
I'd drive a tank if they'd let me.
1 MPG Highway / 0 City
;^)
Well then, obviously she means well.
Posted by 3AngelaD
On News/Activism 07/18/2007 10:28:59 AM CDT · 535 replies · 8,418+ views
Gareth Groves's Hummer was parked on his street in American University Park for five days before two masked men were seen taking bats to it. (By Lois Raimondo -- The Washington Post) See video report |
LOL! Good one!
Carolyn
He must not have known any of his neighbors very well...
Well (he) paid at least $50,000 for it and at $3.00 a gallon for gasoline, he can afford to own it. It is legal to sell a Hummer to anyone that can afford to buy one. There are licensable and, I guess, fun to drive. So what is the beef? Perhaps a tad of envy?
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