PALMETTO, Fla. — Seventeen gravesites were found damaged at a historic cemetery in Manatee County, and deputies are asking for information.
The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) said the vandalism happened at Old Memphis Cemetery in Palmetto. Detectives found evidence that some of the gravestones were defaced before or during March 2026, while others showed more recent damage.
Damages included broken and knocked-down headstones, spray paint on gravesites, and damaged concrete.
MCSO said there is no indication any remains were removed from the gravesites.
No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 941-747-3011. Anonymous tips eligible for a cash reward can be submitted to Manatee County Crime Stoppers at 866-634-TIPS or ManateeCrimeStoppers.com.
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