Democratic Rhode Island state Senator Joshua Miller, who police arrested last week for allegedly vandalizing a vehicle with a “Biden Sucks” sticker parked at an outdoor shopping area, reportedly faces additional charges after denying involvement in the incident to police.
On Thursday, Cranston Police charged Miller with vandalism and malicious injury to property after a suspect accused the lawmaker of “keying” an SUV in the Garden City Center parking lot. When confronted about the incident, Miller denied the accusation to the victim and authorities and was initially let go.
Upon further review of surveillance footage, an officer showed up at Miller’s house and placed him in custody after he admitted to the crime and volunteered to go to the police station and was released on $1,000 personal recognizance.
Cranston Police Col. Michael Winquist on Tuesday told local media that city attorneys are now also “looking at a possible obstruction-of-justice charge” for the 69-year-old politician.
Winquist added that he and city solicitor Christopher Millea “had a discussion about if that charge is appropriate and the elements of the crime are there.”
The vehicle’s owner identified the 69-year-old politician to authorities after suspecting Miller of allegedly damaging the car. The unidentified victim, a supporter of former President Donald Trump, said he noticed a vehicle parked near his car with a “Re-elect Senator Josh Miller” bumper sticker attached. Following the incident, the victim looked up Miller online and identified him as the suspect.
Surveillance video shows the moments Senator Josh Miller is accused of keying an SUV with an anti-Biden sticker at Garden City
He first tells Cranston PD he didn't do it, then when they show up at his house and say they have video, he admits to it @wpri12 https://t.co/Fn78uKFKrt pic.twitter.com/vt8Zw3sZD0
— Amanda Pitts (@AmandaPittsTV) June 23, 2023
The Post Millenial reported that Miller engaged in controversial activities in the past: a video previously captured him telling a man, “Go f*** yourself” after the man told the lawmaker, “The Second Amendment shall not be infringed; you people need to understand that.”
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Rhode Island GOP Chairman Joe Powers said Miller should leave office after the arrest.
“This behavior is unbecoming of anyone holding a leadership position,” Powers wrote on Twitter. “State Senator Joshua Miller has proven once again that he does not have the composure required to represent every constituent in his district and must resign immediately.”
A spokesperson for Senate President Dominick Ruggerio told local media the lawmaker “does not have comment at this point, while the legal process is playing out.”
Miller, who has served as a representative of Cranston and Providence since 2006, will be formally arraigned in court on July 18.