Cameras stop vandalism after more than 100 gravestones are toppled

More than 100 gravestones were toppled at a cemetery in Joutseno, Lappeenranta, in July, prompting the local parish federation to install more surveillance cameras. No further vandalism has been reported there since the summer, Yle reports.

The damage also included flowers and memorial items. The cameras have strengthened security and eased fears of further vandalism, said Seija Kuosmanen, head of cemetery services at the Lappeenranta parish federation.

The federation reported the damage to police, who investigated suspected disturbance of the peace of the dead and criminal damage. Police suspected three people under the age of 15. Because of their age, they cannot be held criminally responsible, but they may have to pay compensation.

The damage cost the parish federation about 3,600 euros, including the cost of raising the gravestones and contacting relatives. The next step is mediation, although no date has been set. Kuosmanen will take part on behalf of the federation.

In mediation, the people suspected of an offence and the victims meet to discuss the harm caused and try to agree on compensation. Kuosmanen said she sees it as a good way to resolve the matter if it helps address and repair the damage. She also hopes mediation could help reduce vandalism in the future.