Who Is William DeFoor (Julia DeFoor)? The Man Accused of Vandalizing JD Vance’s Home?

Who is JD Vance: Biography, Perosnal Life, Wife, and Political Career Former President Donald J. Trump has chosen Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio (A political newcomer and former Trump critic turned ally,) to be his running ...

The arrest of William DeFoor, a 26-year-old Ohio man accused of vandalizing the former home of Vice President JD Vance, has drawn national attention not only because of the target, but because of who DeFoor is and where he comes from.

According to police, DeFoor was taken into custody after allegedly smashing multiple windows at Vance’s Cincinnati residence late at night. The Vance family was not present at the time. Authorities say the incident did not appear random, raising questions about motive, mental health, and political symbolism.

Willian DeFoor (Julia DeFoor), 26, was arrested

A Privileged Upbringing

William DeFoor was raised in an affluent Cincinnati neighborhood. His father, Dr. William DeFoor Sr., is a well-known pediatric urologist and university professor, widely regarded in regional medical circles. The family has long been associated with upper-middle-class stability, professional success, and civic engagement.

Public records indicate the DeFoor family resides in a high-value home and has made political donations over the years, including contributions to Democratic candidates such as Kamala Harris and Joe Biden. There is no indication that William DeFoor’s parents were involved in or aware of the alleged vandalism.

Little public information is available about siblings, and law enforcement has not suggested that any family members were connected to the incident.

Education and Early Promise

DeFoor attended a private Catholic school in Cincinnati and was described by former acquaintances as academically capable in his early years. He later enrolled in college but did not complete his degree. Records suggest he left his initial university program around 2020 and later took classes at a local community college.

Former classmates have described a gradual pattern of withdrawal and instability during his late teens and early twenties. There is no evidence that he maintained steady employment in recent years.

William DeFoor

Mental Health History

Court documents from prior cases show that DeFoor has a documented history of mental health struggles. In earlier incidents unrelated to the Vance case, he faced charges involving property damage and trespassing. In at least one case, a judge ruled that he was not competent to stand trial and ordered mandatory treatment instead of incarceration.

These past rulings are now part of the public discussion surrounding the vandalism allegations. Legal experts note that prior findings of mental illness do not excuse criminal behavior but can significantly affect how cases are prosecuted and sentenced.

Pediatric urologist William DeFoor Jr, (right) and Catherine DeFoor, William’s parents

The Name “Julia” and Gender Questions

In recent months, DeFoor appeared online under the name “Julia DeFoor,” prompting speculation about a possible gender transition. Law enforcement, however, has identified the suspect as William DeFoor and listed him as male in arrest records.

There has been no public statement from DeFoor or his legal representatives confirming a gender transition. Advocates caution against drawing conclusions based solely on online profiles, while critics argue the name change reflects deeper personal turmoil.

Motive Remains Unclear

Police have not disclosed a definitive motive for the alleged vandalism. Investigators have not confirmed whether the act was politically motivated, personally symbolic, or the result of a mental health crisis.

What is known is that the home targeted once belonged to JD Vance, now vice president, making it an unmistakable political symbol even though the property was unoccupied. Authorities say the case is being treated seriously due to the high-profile nature of the target.

Legal Outlook

DeFoor faces multiple charges, including felony vandalism and criminal trespass. A preliminary court hearing is expected to determine whether he will be held in custody, released on bond, or diverted into a mental health program.

As the case moves forward, it highlights a recurring and uncomfortable reality in American public life: how personal instability, political symbolism, and mental health can intersect in unpredictable and sometimes destructive ways.