News Summary
Two individuals have been charged in connection with vandalizing Detroit’s iconic Guardian Building and the 36th District Court, causing damages estimated at $1,000 to $20,000. Ramzu Yunus and Angela Williams used a slingshot to inflict damage and were later found with a handgun and other items during a traffic stop. Further investigations continue regarding potential damage at nearby structures. The suspects remain in custody, facing serious legal ramifications amid growing concerns about public safety and respect for city landmarks.
Detroit – Two individuals, Ramzu Yunus, 49, from Highland Park, and Angela Williams, 57, from Waldorf, Maryland, face multiple charges related to the vandalism of Detroit’s iconic Guardian Building and the 36th District Court. The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office has filed these charges, which include counts of malicious destruction of property, a crime impacting damages estimated between $1,000 and $20,000.
The alleged vandalism took place early on a Saturday morning, just before 5 a.m. Surveillance footage captured the suspects using a slingshot to inflict damage on the Guardian Building. In addition to that, the two are also accused of breaking a window at the 36th District Court during the same incident.
Following the vandalism spree, both Yunus and Williams faced additional complications when law enforcement conducted a traffic stop later that day. During the stop, authorities discovered a handgun with ammunition, metal pellets, and a slingshot in their vehicle. This discovery led to Yunus being charged with several gun offenses, compounding their legal troubles.
Further investigations are being carried out regarding possible damage at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center. On the Friday prior to the incident at the Guardian Building, seven windows on the first story of the municipal center were found damaged, prompting inquiries into whether the same suspects may be responsible.
Yunus has a notable history of activism in Detroit. He had previously encouraged residents to take possession of properties owned by the Detroit Land Bank Authority, promoting what he called the “Detroit Free Housing Program.” This controversial program attracted attention from the Detroit Police Department in 2021 when they investigated his claims that residents could legally occupy vacant properties. Yunus has also faced prior charges of entering vacant buildings without permission; these legal proceedings have stalled as he failed to appear for a scheduled hearing.
An associate of Yunus has defended his activism, characterizing it as a form of humanitarian intervention aimed at addressing the ongoing housing crisis in Detroit. The implications of the recent vandalism charges, however, may overshadow his previous efforts and advocacy.
Both suspects are currently being held in jail, with Yunus currently required to post a bond of $50,000, while Williams has a $25,000 bond. As of now, it is unclear whether the defendants have secured legal representation to address these new charges against them.
In response to the vandalism incidents, the Assistant Chief of Detroit Police condemned the actions of the suspects, labeling it as “pure stupidity.” The police department is committed to holding those responsible accountable for their actions, reiterating that such behaviors will not be tolerated in the city.
The vandalism of notable city structures raises concerns about public safety and respect for community landmarks, and the ongoing investigations continue to reveal the potential breadth of damage caused by Yunus and Williams. As the legal proceedings unfold, further details surrounding the suspects’ motivations and activities are expected to emerge.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Xfinity Service Disruption in Detroit Following Fiber Damage
Belle Isle Closes to Vehicles Ahead of Ford Fireworks Event
Detroit Police Fatally Shoot 16-Year-Old Suspect During Patrol
Teenager Shot and Killed by Police in Detroit Incident
Belle Isle Closes to Vehicle Traffic Ahead of Ford Fireworks
16-Year-Old Boy Killed in Detroit Police Shooting
Former Detroit Officer Faces Charges for Threats and Vandalism
Marshall Blues Festival Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Metro Detroit’s Summer Art Scene Flourishes
Detroit Police Seek Public Help in Vandalism Case
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Vandalism at City Hall
- CBS News: Charges Filed for Guardian Building Vandalism
- Detroit Catholic: FBI Investigates Church Vandalism
- Wikipedia: General Knowledge Resource
- Encyclopedia Britannica: General Knowledge Resource
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
