Arrest Made in Vandalism of Satanic Temple Display at Iowa Capitol

Michael Cassidy, a former U.S. Navy fighter pilot and Republican candidate who recently lost a statehouse election in Mississippi, has been charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief after a Satanic Temple display inside the Iowa Capitol was destroyed. The display, known as a Baphomet statue, had drawn criticism from conservatives, including presidential candidate Ron DeSantis. Cassidy's campaign website describes him as a "Christian conservative," and he had expressed concern about the display on social media. The Satanic Temple stated that the display was "destroyed beyond repair," though part of it remains. Cassidy was released after his arrest, and a fund was set up for his legal defense.