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Arrest made in connection with Quran vandalism at ASU Hayden Library

The ASU Police Department has made an arrest relating to vandalism in an interfaith reflection space in Hayden Library at the center of the Tempe campus.

The suspect damaged several pieces of library property, including a copy of the Quran.

Social media posts began circulating Wednesday, showing torn and burned pages of the Quran on the library floor.

ASU police representative Adam Wolfe says several students and community members contacted ASU police to find a solution.

“We know this meant a great deal to a lot of people, we had a lot of people reach out to us with concern, so we’re very happy to be able to put them at ease, and have a quick resolution to this,” said Wolfe.

Sasha Uddin is the education director for ASU’s Muslim Students Association. She says the images elicited an emotional response for her and other MSA members.

“When I first saw it, I was disturbed, and of course, it’s a little bit of an emotional jab because the book that was ripped up and burned holds a very special place in my heart,” said Uddin.

Uddin says ASU police and faculty were quick to set up a meeting with the MSA after the incident, and that the organization is keeping a dialogue with the university to ensure that those using the interfaith space feel safe.

Uddin added that the MSA is “moving forward with peace and forgiveness,” and hopes that this incident can spur better security in the interfaith space.

ASU police say the arrest was made Thursday night, and the suspect has been charged with criminal damage and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Wolfe says the suspect is not affiliated with the university in any way.

Vaughan Jones was a reporter at KJZZ from 2020 to 2022.