Charges Filed in Indiana for Theft of Veteran Grave Markers
Two individuals are facing legal repercussions in Indiana following a series of thefts involving bronze markers from veterans’ graves across multiple burial sites in the state.
Arrests Made After Investigation
On Friday, authorities apprehended Terry Wood, 53, and Breanna Puentez, 25. Their arrests came after reports indicated that at least 15 grave markers had been stolen from six cemeteries within La Porte County last month. Additionally, one marker was reported to have sustained damage, as stated by the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office in an official announcement.
Both suspects are charged with multiple felony counts related to theft and vandalism of cemetery property.
Community Urged to Assist Investigators
The sheriff’s office initiated a public appeal on August 28 for residents to check on the gravesites of deceased veterans. The following day, investigators received credible leads that helped identify a suspect involved in these crimes.
Detective Jake Koch led the investigation; he is also a veteran himself. His efforts uncovered that the stolen grave markers were taken from various locations including Union Mills, Rolling Prairie, Carmel, Pinola, Greenwood, and St. Stan’s Cemetery.
Evidence Presented for Legal Action
After gathering sufficient evidence against Wood and presenting it to both the La Porte County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and subsequently to La Porte County Circuit Court, probable cause was established for his arrest.
The operation dubbed “Justice, Peace, and Salute” took place on Friday at an address on Andrew Avenue in La Porte where Wood was arrested along with additional evidence being collected during this operation.
Later that same day Puentez was also arrested as part of this ongoing investigation into the thefts.
Community Response and Law Enforcement Statement
Captain Derek J. Allen expressed strong disapproval regarding these criminal acts: ”This type of behavior is appalling and will not be tolerated within our community! We hope that through our thorough investigation led by Detectives Koch and Banic justice will prevail for both accused individuals. It is our sincere wish that all U.S. Veterans—both living and deceased—can find solace knowing these arrests have been made.”
Both suspects have since been booked into custody at the La Porte County Jail; Wood faces a cash-only bond set at $15,005 while Puentez remains without bond due to prior conditions related to her release status.
As communities rally around honoring their fallen heroes through respectful remembrance practices such as maintaining grave sites properly adorned with memorials like bronze markers—the actions taken against those who would desecrate such sacred spaces serve as reminders about vigilance against crime affecting local heritage sites.
