Two Arrested for Felony Vandalism at Historic Steinbeck Plaza in Monterey
MONTEREY, CA — “On the morning of April 30, 2025, at approximately 8:07 a.m., officers from the Monterey Police Department (MPD) responded to reports of extensive graffiti vandalism at Steinbeck Plaza, located in the 700 block of Cannery Row. Multiple areas of the plaza, including tables, statues, and walls, had been defaced with spray paint and marker graffiti, causing damage estimated to be in the thousands of dollars.
Steinbeck Plaza holds historical and cultural significance for Monterey residents and visitors alike, as it honors literary icon John Steinbeck. The senseless defacement of this cherished landmark initiated a swift and thorough investigation by MPD officers. Through recovered surveillance footage, investigators identified two female suspects responsible for the vandalism. The video showed both individuals actively marking multiple locations within the plaza. One of the suspects was identified as Marina Aiwaz, 28, of Marina. Detectives subsequently secured a search warrant and an arrest warrant for Aiwaz.
On the evening of May 1, 2025, at approximately 6:00 p.m., MPD detectives, with assistance from California State University of Monterey Bay (CSUMB) Police, located and arrested Aiwaz at Divarty and General Jim Moore on CSUMB. She was accompanied by Jhoana Morales-Lopez, 22, of Marina, whom detectives recognized as the second suspect from the surveillance video. Morales-Lopez was also taken into custody.
A subsequent search of Aiwaz’s vehicle and residence uncovered evidence of graffiti vandalism, including spray paint cans, markers, and etching tools.
Both suspects were booked into Monterey County Jail on the following charges:
• 594(b)(1) PC – Felony vandalism
• 182(a)(1) PC – Conspiracy
Their bail was set at $10,000 each.
MPD is actively investigating similar cases of graffiti vandalism in the City of Monterey and on the Monterey Peninsula. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation progresses.
Members of the public with relevant information are encouraged to contact Sergeant Greg Galin at (831) 646-3872. Anonymous tips may be submitted via (831) 646-3840.”
