The Dearborn office of U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell was broken into and vandalized, according to a statement sent from her office Monday.
"Today, Congresswoman Dingell’s Dearborn office was broken into and vandalized," Dingell's spokesperson Mackenzie Smith said in a statement. "The Dearborn Police Department responded immediately after notification, and the United States Capitol Police are assisting in the investigation. Team Dingell staff members are safe and were not physically present in the office today given a previous fire in the building."
Smith says the office, located at 19855 W. Outer Dr., "will remain physically closed as the investigation continues."
Dingell, a Democrat, has served as the Representative of Michigan's 12th District since 2015.
On Monday evening, Dingell released her own statement.
“I’m deeply concerned about the break-in and vandalization of my Dearborn office today. Our door and windows were smashed and memorabilia — especially John’s items — was broken. Thankfully, my staff and I are safe and no one was hurt, but we must also recognize the impact attacks like this one and constant threats have had on my staff and all Congressional staff. This needs to stop now.
“The motive for today’s incident is unclear, but what I can tell you is that the disrespect, violence, and division need to end in this country. We need to practice civility and kindness, not divisiveness and anger.
“My office has been receiving threats for months and we take them very seriously. This vandalization really hits home. Regardless of if your views differ from mine or from your neighbor’s, we need to learn to hear each other out and work together to solve the issues facing our nation. Violence and vandalism aren’t the answer.
“I am grateful for the Dearborn Police and United States Capitol Police who keep us safe. We are working with them to identify who is responsible and hold them accountable for their actions. In the meantime, please be safe and please spread a little kindness.”
Dingell's late husband John Dingell died in 2015. He has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1955, making him the longest-serving member of Congress. He last represented the 12th District, which Dingell now serves, from 2013-2014.
This story was updated with a comment from U.S. Rep. Dingell.
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