Kristoffer Von Hassel, 18, who gained attention for discovering a security flaw in Microsoft's Xbox at the age of five, was arrested in California for allegedly vandalizing neighbors' homes with antisemitic graffiti. The San Diego Sheriff's Office reported that Von Hassel was taken into custody around 3 a.m. on Tuesday after receiving multiple reports of vandalism in Imperial Beach. Authorities stated that deputies responded to two separate reports on September 13 regarding swastikas and other hate symbols drawn with black permanent marker. A subsequent report on September 19 indicated that one of the same homes was targeted again, along with a nearby alleyway.
In response to the incidents, police increased patrols in the area and reviewed surveillance footage, which led to the identification of Von Hassel as a suspect. He was found in a dark alley near one of the vandalized locations and was in possession of a handheld electronic device capable of interacting with certain wireless systems, according to police.
One of the affected homeowners, Sandy Brillhart, expressed her fear following the incidents, stating, "I don't feel safe at the beach anymore, and now I no longer feel safe in my house." She described the swastika as a widely recognized symbol of hate and noted that the first attack coincided with Rosh Hashanah, a Jewish holiday.
Von Hassel's father defended his son, recalling his past achievement with Microsoft. He stated, "He’s never gotten in trouble like this before. Just look what he did with Microsoft when he was 5." In 2014, Von Hassel discovered a way to bypass the login system on his father's Xbox, which led to Microsoft addressing the security issue. He was recognized for his achievement with awards, including free games and a subscription to Xbox Live.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Von Hassel remains in custody at San Diego Central Jail, with bail set at $122,500 on charges including vandalism and damage to property.