Almost immediately, Reflections of U Herky was damaged by vandals. The sculpture was returned to its sponsors and repaired.
Then earlier this week, we learned that Organic Herky -- which is located in downtown Iowa City on the Pedestrian Mall -- was damaged. It appears that somebody jumped on his back, causing both of the statue's ankles to crack.
Early reports did not indicate that this was being treated as an incident of vandalism. However, KGAN reported earlier today that a suspect has been identified by police in this second case and a charge of second-degree criminal mischief (a felony charge) is expected to be filed on this individual.
I have to admit that Organic Herky is my favorite Herky this year. There is something perversely ironic about a fiberglass statue with an organic/green theme.
Updated on 06/29/14: The "Organic Herky" vandalism suspect has been identified and KCJJ has all the info!:
Police on Friday arrested a 48-year-old Robert John Lee Jr. for allegedly punching the "Organic Herky" at Dubuque and Washington Streets...Lee has been charged with 2nd Degree Criminal Mischief, which is a class D felony, and Public Intoxication. He faces up to five years in prison.
Police say they received an anonymous tip identifying Lee as the person who damaged the Herky. During a police interview Friday Lee admitted to causing the damage by punching the statue. Police say Lee was cooperative in the investigations, offered to pay for the statue, and promised he would He would not damage any more Herkys.