Florida law enforcement officials are seeking the identity of those responsible for vandalizing a historic cemetery with deep ties to the Black community. The Old Memphis Cemetery in Palmetto, Florida, has been the target of vandalism at 17 graves over the past few weeks.
According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s office, concrete was broken at some graves and others were spray-painted with red paint. Investigators reported that one grave was completely cracked open and collapsed inward.
“It’s evil, messing with death,” said Xtavia Bailey, who has relatives buried at the cemetery. “This is crazy and heartbreaking.”
Tracey Washington, president of the Manatee County NAACP, expressed outrage and fury over the vandalism. She noted that her brother, grandfather, and grandmother are interred there.
“I’m outraged and furious,” Washington said. “I’m very disturbed.”
Washington also reported that spray-painted messages on some graves read “Trump” and “Ron DeSantis.”
In response to the incident, officials announced a community cleanup event that includes an offer from a local cement company to install new vault lids at no cost.
Christopher Mullinex, a volunteer in the effort, stated: “This place has a lot of history, and it should be protected just like any other history we’ve got.”
