Terry Wood and Breanna Puentez, both residents of Indiana, are facing charges in connection with the theft of bronze veteran markers from headstones at various veteran burial locations in La Porte County. The La Porte County Sheriff’s Office announced the investigation into the stolen grave markers in August, and after receiving credible information identifying a suspect, Detective Jake Koch led the investigation that revealed at least 15 grave markers had been stolen from six different cemeteries in the county. The stolen grave markers were taken from cemeteries in Union Mills, Rolling Prairie, Carmel, Pinola, Greenwood, and St. Stan’s, with one marker reportedly damaged. The investigation presented evidence to the La Porte County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, which led to probable cause being found for Wood’s arrest.
On August 28th, public attention was drawn to the stolen grave markers, with the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office urging residents to visit the grave sites of deceased veterans for potential thefts. The following day, Wood was arrested in La Porte during the “Justice, Peace, and Salute” operation, and additional evidence was collected. Puentez was later taken into custody and charged in connection with the thefts. Both suspects are facing several felony counts of theft and cemetery mischief. Wood is currently being held on a $15,005 cash-only bond, while Puentez is not eligible for bond as she was already out on bond for another offense.
Captain Derek J. Allen of the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office expressed disgust and intolerance for this type of criminal behavior, stating that justice would be served to both accused subjects. He also emphasized the hope that the arrests would bring peace and comfort to US veterans, both deceased and living, in the community. The diligent and thorough investigation conducted by Detectives Koch and Banic was crucial in uncovering the thefts and leading to the subsequent arrests of Wood and Puentez. By removing the stolen grave markers from the cemeteries, the suspects have disrespected the memories of the deceased veterans and caused significant damage to the community.
The theft and damage of the bronze veteran markers are seen as unacceptable and disgraceful by the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office, as it not only disrespects the deceased veterans but also disrupts the peace and comfort that their families and loved ones deserve. The arrest of Wood and Puentez is a crucial step in delivering justice to the community and ensuring that such criminal behavior will not be tolerated in La Porte County. By holding the suspects accountable for their actions, the sheriff’s office hopes to restore the honor and respect that should be afforded to deceased veterans and their families, as well as the living veterans who have served their country.
Both suspects, Wood and Puentez, were booked into the La Porte County Jail following their arrests. Wood is currently being held on a $15,005 cash-only bond, while Puentez is not eligible for bond due to her previous bond status for another offense. The charges they are facing, including theft and cemetery mischief, are considered serious felonies that reflect the severity of their actions in stealing the bronze veteran markers from headstones at various cemeteries in La Porte County. The community, the sheriff’s office, and the prosecutors involved in the case are determined to seek justice for the stolen grave markers and the veterans they represent, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their crimes.
