Climate protester arrested after spray-painting signs at Trump Tower.

A climate activist was arrested on Wednesday for defacing a sign inside Trump Tower in New York City, an act that underscored the heightened tensions surrounding environmental activism. The suspect, identified as Nathaniel Smith, 36, a resident of Crown Heights, was apprehended after he spray-painted “USA” in green over a mock Presidential Seal, which prominently featured the words “President of the United States” at the top, “Donald Trump” at the bottom, and the number “45” in the center.

The incident, captured on video, shows Smith, dressed in a black t-shirt and pants, kneeling in front of the plaque after completing his act of vandalism. He subsequently brandished a banner reading “GAME OVER,” which bore the emblem of the climate activist organization Extinction Rebellion. Security personnel approached him as he made his statement regarding the degradation of the planet, drawing attention to the ongoing climate crisis and the perceived prioritization of profit over environmental health.

In a swift response, law enforcement officials, including a New York City police officer, quickly intervened. Smith was administered handcuffs and led away amidst a crowd of onlookers, one of whom expressed concern for his safety. Subsequently, he voiced his grievances, claiming that corporate actions are compromising the planet for profit.

Smith faces multiple charges, including making graffiti, possession of a graffiti instrument, and criminal tampering. This incident marks a recurrence of Smith’s encounters with the law, as he was previously arrested on April 9 for criminal trespass at Columbia University.

The U.S. Secret Service confirmed their awareness of the incident, emphasizing that it did not disrupt their protective operations at the tower. A spokesperson acknowledged the NYPD’s expedient response and noted the importance of collaborative efforts in maintaining security.

This protest followed a series of recent actions by Extinction Rebellion, including the defacement of the iconic Wall Street bull statue and an interruption of a New York City Ballet performance. These activities were part of the group’s broader Earth Day demonstrations that seek to raise awareness about climate issues, often employing eye-catching and controversial tactics to emphasize their messages.