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Suspect arrested in West Philly tire slashings

A West Philadelphia man has been arrested and charged with slashing tires on dozens of cars last week, police said.

A West Philadelphia man has been arrested and charged with slashing tires on dozens of cars last week, police said.

The slashings occured Jan. 7 on Hazel Avenue, between 47th and 50th streets, and Chancellor Avenue near 53rd, in West Philadelphia. Authorities said at least 59 cars were found to have their tires slashed.

Harry Gaines, 27, from Angora Terrace near 60th Street, was arrested Wednesday near 52nd and Market streets. Gaines was identified based on various anonymous tips, police said. He has been charged with criminal conspiracy, criminal mischief and related offenses.

Last week, authorities had released surveillance footage showing a man and woman walking down the street at 5:30 a.m., around the time of the slashings. The man is shown bending down to puncture two tires and puncturing others as he walks down the street.

Mayor Nutter's office posted a $5,000 reward for the arrest and conviction of the vandals. The Fraternal Order of Police offered $5,000 for information leading to an arrest. It is unclear if anyone will receive either reward.

The woman in the alleged incident surrendered to police last week, according to reports. As of Thursday, she has not been charged.