Susan Burns, Attacker Of Gauguin And Matisse Paintings, Indicted In Washington, DC

Serial Art Attacker Indicted

Susan J. Burns, who made news earlier this year for twice attacking world famous paintings in the National Gallery of Art, was indicted in Washington, DC on seven counts. The Washington Post reports that Burns will be charged with "destruction of property, threats to do bodily harm, unlawful entry and second-degree burglary."

The destruction of property charges undoubtedly refer to the attacks; the alleged threats to do bodily harm may stem from a conversation Burns had with an investigator after her earlier arrest, which included the following lines: "I was trying to remove it. I think it should be burned. I am from the American CIA and I have a radio in my head. I am going to kill you."

According to another Washington Post report, "A trial competence report after that 2005 arrest says that Burns 'acknowledges having schizophrenia and willingly takes prescribed medications.'" In order to be indicted, however, she had to be deemed fit to stand trial.

Her arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday, September 7.

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