The Penticton man allegedly responsible for spray painting political graffiti on a federal building last spring appeared in court at trial without a lawyer today.

Ryan Curtis Rose, 24, is facing two charges of mischief $5,000 or under stemming from the incident on April 30 in Penticton.

On that date, graffiti was painted on the Canada Revenue Agency building downtown and another business.

Rose said he took the action because of concerns about Bill C-51, environmental issues like Burnaby Mountain, and election fraud charges against a former Tory Party staff member.

Today in court two high profile persons testified. Former Councillor John Vassilaki, owner of a damaged building and Fire Chief Wayne Williams who saw the spray – painting taking place and called police.

After the conclusion of all testimony Judge Gale Sinclair – said “Guilty as charged”.

Rose was given a suspended sentence and 16 months probation, Wednesday.

Judge Sinclair said the vandalism was not artistic expression, but mischief, pure and simple. He was ordered to pay about $1000 to the owners of two buildings.