Police: Woman summonsed for vandalizing Westport crosswalk

A Bridgeport woman has been arrested for allegedly vandalizing a crosswalk on Post Road East in Westport.

Police say Katerina Hasiotis inked the words "Save Gaza" on a crosswalk near the road and Main Street Thursday.

They say this caused damage to the crosswalk and temporary repairs had to be made. The town highway department responded Friday to "properly address the matter."

Hasiotis turned herself into police on Friday and was issued a misdemeanor summons for criminal mischief.

She is expected to appear in court on June 20.

In a statement, police said the department is committed to protecting the public's right to freedom of speech, but that "does not include the destruction or defacement of public or private property. The Town respects and encourages the citizenry to express their opinions regardless of point of view, however this must be done in a peaceful manner with respect to other's personal safety and property."