Two individuals are facing charges in Indiana for allegedly stealing bronze veteran markers from headstones at various veteran burial sites in the state.
Terry Wood, 53, and Breanna Puentez, 25, were arrested after the theft of at least 15 grave markers from six different cemeteries in La Porte County was reported last month. One marker was also reportedly damaged, according to the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office.
Both suspects are charged with multiple felonies, including theft and defacing cemetery property.
On August 28, the sheriff’s office announced the investigation into the stolen grave markers and encouraged residents to visit the grave sites of deceased veterans. The next day, investigators received credible information identifying a suspect.
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Terry Wood, 53, and Breanna Puentez, 25, are facing felony counts of theft and cemetery mischief. (La Porte County Sheriff’s Office)
Detective Jake Koch, a veteran himself, led the investigation which uncovered that the grave markers were taken from cemeteries in Union Mills, Rolling Prairie, Carmel, Pinola, Greenwood, and St. Stan’s.
Evidence was presented to the La Porte County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and later to La Porte County Circuit Court, leading to Wood’s arrest based on probable cause.
The “Justice, Peace, and Salute” operation was carried out in the 400 block of Andrew Avenue in La Porte on Friday when Wood was apprehended, and additional evidence was collected.
The investigation revealed that the grave markers were taken from various cemeteries. (iStock)
Later that day, Puentez was arrested and charged in relation to the thefts.
“This kind of criminal activity is repugnant, unacceptable, and will not be tolerated in La Porte County! The Sheriff’s Office hopes that due to the diligent investigation, justice will be served to both accused individuals. Hopefully, with these arrests, deceased and living US Veterans will find solace and comfort. We salute them for their service,” Captain Derek J. Allen stated.
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Both suspects were booked into the La Porte County Jail. (iStock)
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Wood is being held on a $15,005 cash-only bond, while Puentez is not eligible for bond as she was out on bond previously.
