Man Arrested for Chainsawing Trees in LA
Suspect Accused of Cutting Down 13 Mature Trees on Public Property Arrested on Earth Day
A 44-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly using a chainsaw to cut down mature trees across several blocks of downtown Los Angeles. Samuel Patrick Groft was arrested on April 22 after police linked him to multiple cases of tree vandalism reported across different areas of downtown Los Angeles. His arrest occurred on Earth Day, intensifying public attention on the case.
Authorities have charged Groft in connection with the felling of 13 trees spread out over five distinct sites in the city. These include one tree along North Broadway, three near West 8th Street, five at South Grand Avenue, three near West Temple Street, and one on Treadwell Street. Investigators say more sites may still be uncovered as the case progresses.
Arrest Followed Public Alert
In the days leading up to his arrest, residents had begun reporting downed trees across sidewalks and streets. The trees were not saplings—they were mature, with thick trunks, and many appeared to be Ficus trees, known for their extensive root systems and broad canopies. These trees, common in dense urban areas, offered essential shade in neighborhoods where concrete dominates.
On Tuesday morning, LAPD released a community bulletin with an image of a suspect on a bicycle, dressed in dark clothing and carrying two bags. Hours later, officers confirmed Groft had been located and arrested. Physical evidence collected at the scenes tied him directly to the tree-cutting incidents.
Long Criminal Record and Mental Health History
Authorities said Groft has a lengthy history of criminal charges. Court records show past convictions for assault with a deadly weapon, DUI, felony vandalism, and a hit-and-run. He had previously participated in a mental health diversion program, which provides treatment instead of jail time for certain offenders.
While LAPD declined to confirm if mental illness played a role in these recent acts, Groft has previously made unusual claims online. In a LinkedIn post, he stated he was being followed and “mind controlled” using electronic weapons—a statement that has raised further questions about his mental state. Police noted that he was already known to them from prior incidents.
Groft has pleaded not guilty and is being held on $350,000 bail. It remains unclear whether the Los Angeles Public Defender’s Office will be representing Groft, as no official statement has been released.
Damage Goes Beyond Property
The tree vandalism incident in Los Angeles has triggered city-wide frustration. Mayor Karen Bass described the situation as “truly beyond comprehension,” and said city crews are already evaluating the damage and working on plans for replacement. Nathan Hochman, a candidate for City Attorney, criticized the destruction as a selfish act that damaged valuable parts of the community’s environment.
Residents who live near the damaged trees said the loss goes beyond aesthetics. Trees in urban areas improve air quality, reduce heat, absorb stormwater, and create healthier surroundings. Their removal impacts not just the cityscape but public health and neighborhood livability.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Investigators suspect the chain of incidents began around April 13 and continued until April 22, the day Groft was taken into custody. Some cuts occurred during daylight hours, others overnight. A witness in one area recalled seeing a man, believed to be Groft, using a chainsaw on a metal pole, calling the event “not normal.”
Police say more locations may be added to the case as they continue receiving reports and tracking leads.
