Putnam County's July Fourth celebration was marred by vandalism after a replica of the Declaration of Independence was defaced with hateful graffiti. The incident, which occurred in Carmel, has prompted an investigation by local law enforcement.
County officials reported that the oversized replica, displayed outside the historic courthouse, was covered with politically charged messages. Among the statements scrawled on the document were "free Palestine," "abolish ICE," and "500 years of genocide." Other messages included "5,000 children in concentration camps," "God is telling you stop being cruel USA," and "abolish millionaires."
Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne described the act as "grossly disrespectful" and "anti-American." He stated that while citizens have the right to express their views, defacing a historic document is inappropriate. "If you want to express your first amendment right and the freedom of speech, this is America. You should write it on your own sign and wave it at people in front of the courthouse and say it," Byrne said.
The replica was part of an initiative for residents to sign the document as a commemoration of America's 250th birthday. Surveillance cameras captured the vandalism, and police have interviewed several individuals. No charges have been filed as the investigation continues.
The display has since been removed and is expected to be reinstated at future local events. The county executive emphasized the seriousness with which the vandalism is being treated.
In a separate incident, a statue of local historical figure Sybil Ludington in Carmel was also reportedly defaced with a white substance. Ludington, a teenager in 1777, is known for her midnight horseback ride to warn militias of approaching British forces.
Byrne expressed his offense at actions he perceives as "rooting against the country rather than celebrating it," calling the vandals "anti-American."