In Yesterdays News: Officials investigate cemetery vandalism Katie Landeck News Staff Writer #WINCHENDON — While most of the headstones have been repaired, officials are still looking for answers after more than 70 grave markers were vandalized at Riverside Cemetery. At about 7:30 p.m. on Sunday night, a resident discovered the toppled headstones. The stones of Civil War veterans and infants have been recorded among the damage. Much of the ongoing investigation regards the southwest corner of the site where stones had been knocked off their bases, broken or chipped, according to Winchendon Lieutenant David Walsh. Some of the grave markers are estimated to have been damaged beyond repair. Authorities suspect the damage happened over the weekend, most likely on Saturday night. A $1,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual responsible for the vandalism. The reward is being paid out of pocket by Selectman Robert O’Keefe, Town Manager James Kreidler and Department of Public Works Superintendent John Deline. “The sort of person who would do this is the sort of person who has friends that need $1,000,” said Selectman Robert O’Keefe. Officials have said there are some leads in the case, but they are hoping the reward will bring additional information to the forefront. Lt. Walsh said he only remembers one other incident where a cemetery was vandalized in Winchendon. He noted the cemeteries are patrolled regularly. However, recently surrounding communities have also reported acts of vandalism. In June, four stones were toppled in Templeton and 19 stones were damaged at the Worcester Hebrew Cemetery in Auburn. Anyone with information about the Winchendon incident should contact Sergeant Gerald Gagne and Officer Alan Ross. 978-297-1213.
Posted on: Thu, 07 Aug 2014 17:51:02 +0000
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