Two suspects have been arrested after more than 150 headstones were vandalized in two cemeteries in Tennessee over the weekend.
Justin Emler, 31, and Jeremy Heaton, 23, have been detained and charged with one count each of vandalism over $60,000 each, according to authorities. Police say more charges are expected.
“In regards to the absolute heinous acts of vandalism that occurred to our local cemetery, our hearts go out to the loved ones that were touched by this senseless crime,” the Lebanon Police Department wrote on Facebook. “The effort put forth by numerous members of our department lead to the swift arrests of two suspects. Our promise will be to follow through with the prosecution of all applicable charges, as well as, to keep all the victims up to date and informed as we move forward.”
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The department shared video footage detailing the damage on Saturday and announced a $1,000 reward “for any information leading to the conviction of those involved.”
According to police, “well over 150 headstone markers” were overturned and vandalized, resulting in tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage.
Cedar Grove Cemetery, one of the vandalized locations, was reportedly established in 1846. Among those buried there are Civil War Gen. Robert Hatton and poet Dixon Merritt.
Just after midnight on Sunday, police announced the arrests of Emler and Heaton.
“The pair also confessed to another vandalism that occurred at the Lebanon Country Club,” police revealed.
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Police have yet to determine and share a motive.
