Stolen Valor: Pair Accused of 'Disgusting, Unacceptable' Theft of Bronze Veteran Grave Markers in Indiana

Two people were arrested in connection with a series of thefts of bronze veteran grave markers from cemeteries across Indiana, authorities said.

The La Porte County Sheriff's Office began receiving reports of the veteran marker thefts last month, and assigned Detective Jake Koch, a veteran, as lead investigator.

The sheriff's office on Aug. 28 informed the public of the investigation, and encouraged people to visit veterans' gravesites.

Just a day later, a credible tip led investigators to a suspect.

Detective Koch and Detective Aaron Banic soon learned that the bronze grave markers had been taken not only from headstones at the Union Mills and Rolling Prairie Cemeteries, but also from several others.

In total, 15 veteran grave markers were reported stolen, and one was reported damaged.

On Sept. 6, in an operation dubbed “Justice, Peace and Salute,” Terry L. Wood, 53, was taken into custody at a residence on Andrew Avenue in La Porte.

Later that day, Breanna C. Puentez, 25, was taken into custody for her alleged role in the theft ring.

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“This type of criminal behavior is disgusting, unacceptable and will not be tolerated in La Porte County," LPCSO Captain Derek J. Allen said in a statement. "It is the hope of the entire Sheriff’s Office that because of the diligent and thorough investigation by Detectives Koch and Banic, justice will be served to both accused subjects. Hopefully, US Veterans, both deceased and living, can find peace and comfort with these arrests, and with that, we salute them for their service.”

TMX contributed to this report.