ASHLAND — Police do not have any suspects in the case involving hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage at the Ashland Cemetery, said Capt. Craig Kiley.
Kiley said Tuesday investigators are still working the case, but they have a new estimate for the damage caused by vandalism to headstones, a military veterans memorial and broken windows.
“It’s more than $250,000,” he said.
Sondra Hoffman, the owner of Ashland Monument Co., said the cost to replace all of the 133 headstones that were toppled and damaged would amount to $285,000.
That estimate also included replacing the bronze war memorial sculpture that was broken and the windows of the building that were shattered.
“Basically that is just what it would cost to replace these ornate ones that have been damaged, plus our time,” Hoffman said.
“A lot of this stuff can’t be replaced, though.”
The incident allegedly occurred June 11. Since then, officers have investigated by looking at available surveillance video and knocking on nearby doors. Police have asked property owners to review footage from doorbell cameras and other possible surveillance.
Kiley declined to describe what police observed in surveillance footage. Chief Dave Lay has declined to discuss what evidence police have collected so far.
Fundraising efforts
Ashland Elks Lodge #1360 committed up to $13,000 last week for the installation of a “comprehensive security camera system across the historic cemetery property.”
“The Elks are absolutely outraged,” said Chad Dickenson, Exalted Ruler of Ashland Elks Lodge #1360. “The desecration of such a sacred space — especially one that honors our veterans — is beyond appalling. Our lodge is proud to stand with the Ashland Cemetery Association and ensure this never happens again.”
Elks said the money would lead to the installation of “modern, high-resolution, 24/7 surveillance equipment” for the entire property.
Jim Doyle, the Ashland Cemetery’s board president, said he is grateful for the commitment.
“Their support is not only financial — it is a powerful statement that our community will not tolerate such cowardly destruction. These monuments represent the lives and legacies of our loved ones. Protecting them is our sacred duty,” he said.
The City of Ashland established a special fund to centralize fundraising efforts.
As of Tuesday, the city’s finance division reported receiving $21,935 in donations.
Meanwhile, individuals and organizations have rallied to raise money. Turk Brothers Custom Meats plans to host a cookout on July 26.
How to give
- Make checks out to “City of Ashland Cemetery Fund”
- In memo, designate the funds to “military memorial” or “where the need is most.”
Source: Sara Fisher, Ashland County Historical Society Executive Director