Authorities are searching for vandals who damaged a Florida cemetery, including spray painting the words “Trump” and “Ron DeSantis” on some tombstones or concrete graves.
There were 17 gravesites at Old Memphis Cemetery that were had tombstones or graves broken, knocked down or spray painted, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Department. It’s not clear exactly when the vandalism took place, but investigators believe it was on or before March 2026.
“At this time there is no indication that any remains were removed from the gravesites,” according to a press release from the sheriff’s office. “This investigation remains active and ongoing.”
Anyone with information might be eligible for a cash reward and is urged to contact the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at (941) 747-3011 or Manatee County Crime Stoppers at (866) 634-TIPS or visit ManateeCrimeStoppers.com.
Michelle Spitzer is a journalist for The USA TODAY NETWORK-FLORIDA. As the network’s Rapid Response reporter, she covers Florida’s breaking news. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Florida cemetery vandalized with ‘Trump’ and ‘Ron DeSantis’ graffiti
Reporting by Michelle Spitzer, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
