The LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrests of Terry L. Wood, 53, and Breanna C. Puentez, 25, in connection with a series of thefts involving bronze veteran markers from headstones across the county.
The investigation began last month when multiple reports of stolen bronze markers emerged. Detective Jake Koch, a veteran himself, was assigned as the lead investigator. On August 28th, the LCSO publicly sought help from the community, urging citizens to check the gravesites of deceased veterans. The following day, a credible lead helped identify a suspect.
Detectives Koch and Aaron Banic devoted extensive time and effort to the case. Their investigation revealed that bronze markers had been stolen from several cemeteries, including Union Mills, Rolling Prairie, Carmel, Pinola, Greenwood, and St. Stan’s. To date, 15 markers have been reported stolen and one has been damaged.
Evidence was compiled and presented to the La Porte County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the La Porte County Circuit Court, which found probable cause for Wood’s arrest. On the morning of the arrest, an operation named “Justice, Peace and Salute” was carried out at a residence on Andrew Avenue in La Porte, where Wood was taken into custody along with additional evidence. Puentez was later arrested and charged for her involvement in the theft ring.
Wood and Puentez are currently held at the La Porte County Jail. They face charges of Theft (Level 5 Felony) and Cemetery Mischief (15 counts, Level 6 Felony). Wood’s bond is set at $15,005 cash-only, while Puentez remains in custody without bond.
Captain Derek J. Allen commented, “This type of criminal behavior is disgusting, unacceptable, and will not be tolerated in La Porte County! We hope that the diligent work of Detectives Koch and Banic will bring justice and provide some peace to both deceased and living veterans. We salute them for their service.”
The investigation underscores the commitment of the LCSO to protecting the dignity and respect of the county’s veterans.
