The Riley Cemetery has sustained thousands of dollars in damage after what’s being described as an act of vandalism.
An unknown vehicle drove through the cemetery sometime between the evening of February 4 and February 6, tearing ruts in a 25 by 150 feet long portion of the lawn. A photo was published in the Riley Countian Newspaper Wednesday.
Riley Cemetery Board President Jeff Holmes says that no headstones were damaged, but that the ruts in the lawn could cost about $2,500 to repair. He says they’ll be making attempts to smooth out the surface and replant grass.
According to the Countian, Holmes says he wants to speak with whoever was responsible for the damage, even if it was accidental. He also wants area residents to keep an eye out and contact Riley County Police if they notice suspicious activity in the cemetery.