Indiana Pair Arrested for Allegedly Stealing Bronze Veteran Burial Markers
Two people are facing charges in Indiana in connection with a series of thefts of bronze veteran markers from headstones from various veteran burial locations in the Hoosier State.
Terry Wood, 53, and Breanna Puentez, 25, were taken into custody Friday after at least 15 grave markers from six different cemeteries in La Porte County last month were reported stolen while another was reportedly damaged, the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.
Both suspects are facing several felony counts of theft and cemetery mischief. It’s troubling to think that markers meant to honor those who served their country were plundered, leaving families to cope with the heartbreak of such disrespect.
The Investigation Unfolds
The sheriff’s office publicly announced the investigation into the stolen grave markers on August 28 and urged residents to visit the grave sites of deceased veterans. The next day, investigators received credible information identifying a suspect. In communities like Union Mills and Greenwood, places that share a history of service and sacrifice, news of the thefts resonated deeply.
Detective Jake Koch, who brings a personal understanding of the significance of these markers, led the investigation. His commitment not only to solving the case but also to ensuring justice for veterans served as a beacon for the community. The stolen markers were taken from cemeteries in Union Mills, Rolling Prairie, Carmel, Pinola, Greenwood, and St. Stan’s, all places where memories linger in the stillness of time.
Evidence was presented to the La Porte County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, which eventually led to a finding of probable cause for Wood’s arrest. A careful examination of the crime scene and community stories pieced together the timeline of this inexplicable act.
The Arrests
The “Justice, Peace, and Salute” operation unfolded Friday in the 400 block of Andrew Avenue in La Porte, where Wood was apprehended, and additional evidence was collected. The gravity of such a crime weighs heavily on a community that prides itself on honoring its veterans.
Later that day, Puentez was also taken into custody, charged in connection with the thefts. With a combined effort from law enforcement and community members, the arrests brought a glimmer of hope.
As Capt. Derek J. Allen stated, “This type of criminal behavior is disgusting, unacceptable, and will not be tolerated in La Porte County!” His remarks serve as a reminder that the integrity of memorial spaces is paramount, granting peace to both the living and fallen. Hopefully, these actions lead to healing for those affected.
Both suspects were booked into the La Porte County Jail. Wood is being held on a $15,005 cash-only bond, while Puentez is not eligible for bond due to her prior legal situation. As the investigation continues, local businesses and residents are left to ponder the lengths to which some will go—to disregard the memories of those who bravely served. One must wonder if the allure of a quick gain is worth the legacy that is tarnished in the process.
A random fact worth reflecting on: bronze, often used for such memorials, has a rich history stretching back to ancient times, reflecting both artistry and durability—qualities that resonate with the values of honor and remembrance.
