BOSTON — Police are seeking the public's help in identifying the person responsible for vandalizing several memorials at Mount Hope Cemetery in Mattapan, including one dedicated to fallen Boston Police officers.
On Tuesday, Boston police officers responded to the Mount Hope Cemetery,where several memorial monuments including one which is dedicated to fallen Boston Police officers, were reported vandalized.
The Boston Police Relief Association Memorial was erected in honor and memory of officers who have passed away.
Detectives are in the early stages of the investigation that is active and ongoing, police said. Additional vandalized memorials include the Civil War, Spanish American War, World War I and World War II monument altar, Knights of Columbus and Free Masons memorials.
In a statement, Boston Police Commissioner William Gross decried the vandalism.
"How incredibly distasteful and disheartening it is to learn about the damage done to the memorials at the Mt. Hope Cemetery in Mattapan," Gross said. "Clearly, these memorials are meant to honor and show great respect to those, whether they be veterans or police officers, who spent a lifetime in dedicated service to our city and nation."
"I find it beyond reprehensible and wrong that anyone would think it okay to damage and desecrate such hallowed grounds," Gross said. "Clearly, we hope to quickly identify and hold accountable the person responsible for these misguided and hateful actions.”
Mayor Marty Walsh said in a tweet that authorities are working to catch the persons responsible for the vandalism.
"These acts of vandalism will not be tolerated in our city. Together with the Boston Police, we will make sure anyone involved will be held responsible," Walsh said.
Moving forward, state Senator Nick Collins also discussed the possibility of having some type of security, perhaps installing cameras at the monuments.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Boston detectives at 617-343-4712.
People can also leave tips for investigators anonymously by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 800-494-TIPS or by texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463).