Shelby Lang Smith, a registered sex offender, has been arrested in connection with a series of vandalism incidents at the Oklahoma state Capitol and other government buildings, where he allegedly sprayed anti-ICE graffiti including messages like "KILL ICE" directed against Oklahoma's Republican Governor, Kevin Stitt. The authorities reported that Smith's actions constitute potential threats against public safety and reflect an increasing trend of politically charged vandalism.

The charges against Smith include 10 counts of malicious injury to property and three counts of threatening violent acts. His arrest on January 23 follows a prior conviction in 2022 for soliciting sexual conduct with a minor through technology, which resulted in a five-year prison sentence for probation violation handed down on February 18. These prior offenses complicate his case, raising concerns about his behavior and motivations behind the vandalism.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol has emphasized its commitment to protecting the state Capitol and its visitors. This incident not only raises questions about public safety surrounding government properties but also highlights the potential escalation of political dissent into criminal acts, signaling a troubling pattern that authorities may need to address more aggressively in the future.