Caroline Tucker
wmal.com
UPPER MARLBORO (WMAL) – Prince George’s County Police want to know who vandalized a historic cemetery.
“I was very, very disheartened to see all these tombstones toppled over,” said Steve Kensinger, a church warden at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church in Upper Marlboro.
Kensinger says he found the vandalism on Saturday night.
Police think it happened sometime between Thursday and Saturday.
This cemetery dates back to the 1700’s and is one of the oldest continually operating cemeteries in Prince George’s County.
“I take this is a personal affront. There are soldiers who fought for our freedom in the Revolutionary War, in the War of 1812, in the Civil War buried on these grounds,” said Chief Hank Stawinski.
It’s estimated that about two dozen tombstones were knocked over.
There were no cameras on the grounds but police say they will continue to investigate any leads.
Chief Stawinksi urges whoever is responsible to turn themselves in.
“To those that committed this offense, you may not have been cognizant of what you were doing, this might seem like it is funny. But I encourage you to step forward and take responsibility for what you have done,” said Chief Stawinksi.
Kensinger is praying for the same thing.
“They might see the errors of their way, turn themselves in, and hopefully learn a very serious life lesson,” said Kensinger
If you have information, you are asked to call 301-868-8773 with information. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous to call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS or text “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES.
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