LANSING – Responding to reports of vandalism against a war memorial in Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Grand Rapids, State Representative Robert Dean (D-Grand Rapids) today called on the Michigan House of Representatives to pass legislation that would make destroying or vandalizing any war memorial a felony.
"Anyone who defiles the memory of the brave servicemen and servicewomen who devoted their lives to protecting our freedom must be punished appropriately," Dean said. "A gravesite is a precious reminder of the loved ones we have lost. We need to crack down on the insensitive individuals who desecrate the final resting places of our fallen heroes."
According to the Associated Press, graffiti – in the form of what appears to be the figure of a man with an upraised arm – was discovered on five granite markers honoring Kent County veterans.
Dean supports a bipartisan package of bills introduced last November in the House. The bills will make destroying or vandalizing a war memorial a felony punishable by up to five years in prison. The bills also levy a fine of $10,000 or triple the cost of the damage, whichever is greater.
"It would be a slap in the face to our veterans if we let these criminals get off with a slap on the wrist," Dean said. "By taking additional steps to protect the memorials to our servicemen and servicewomen, we are paying respect to the incredible sacrifices they have made for us."