by Meriden, CT — A shocking act of vandalism at St. Patrick’s Cemetery has left around 100 headstones and monuments toppled or damaged, some beyond repair, according to Meriden police.
Discovery of the Damage
On Tuesday morning, police received multiple calls from concerned citizens reporting severe damage at the cemetery. Officers responding to the scene met with the property maintenance company to assess the situation.
“During the walk through it was noted that roughly 100 headstones, monuments and obelisks had been knocked off their bases,” Lt. Darrin McKay said.
Some of the gravestones dated back to the 1800s and were cracked in half, making restoration impossible. Others bore deep gouge marks consistent with being struck by a chain or cable. Notably, there were no tire marks in the grass, ruling out vehicle involvement.
Investigation Points to Multiple Suspects
Due to the size and weight of many of the damaged monuments, authorities believe multiple individuals were involved. Officers canvassed nearby homes, searching for witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage. Initial findings indicate the vandalism occurred between 8 p.m. Monday and 7 a.m. Tuesday.
McKay confirmed that the Meriden Police Department Detective Bureau is now assisting with the case, which remains an active investigation.
City Leaders Condemn the Act
Mayor Kevin Scarpati visited the cemetery, highlighting its historical significance, which includes the graves of notable figures such as a former mayor.
“We are not going to tolerate this in any cemetery or area of our city,” Scarpati stated. “We take this extremely seriously.”
Deputy Police Chief Jerry Scully was equally firm in his response.
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“This is disgusting and not acceptable,” Scully said. “Knocking over headstones is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.”
A Historical Landmark Disrespected
St. Patrick’s Cemetery is one of Meriden’s oldest burial grounds, with a history stretching back centuries. Many families visit regularly to honor their loved ones, making the damage especially painful for the community. Acts like these not only destroy physical monuments but also erase pieces of local history.
Vandalism Laws in Connecticut
Under Connecticut law, damaging headstones or monuments in a cemetery is considered a Class C felony. Penalties can include significant fines and up to a decade in prison. Police emphasized that this level of vandalism goes beyond mischief — it is a serious criminal offense.
Community Urged to Assist
Authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying those responsible. Tips from residents have played a critical role in solving past cases of vandalism, and police hope the same will happen here.
Local coverage from CT Insider noted that some of the damage appeared targeted, with heavier monuments deliberately pushed from their bases. This could indicate a coordinated effort rather than random acts.
Emotional Toll on Families
For many families, visiting the cemetery is a sacred tradition. The sight of toppled or broken headstones has left some in shock and disbelief. Community members have expressed frustration on social media, calling for swift justice.
“It’s heartbreaking. Those stones represent someone’s loved one,” one local resident posted. “To destroy that is beyond cruel.”
Call for Accountability
As the investigation continues, city leaders have vowed to increase patrols in and around Meriden’s cemeteries. Additional lighting and potential installation of security cameras are being considered to deter future acts.
McKay reiterated that the department takes crimes against cemeteries very seriously. “This is about respect — for the deceased, for their families, and for the community as a whole,” he said.
Contact Information for Tips
Anyone with information is urged to contact Officer Alejandro Schroder or Detective Benjamin Pellegrini at 203-630-6201.
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