A Pennsylvania man has been charged following an investigation into the theft of human remains from Mount Moriah Cemetery near Philadelphia.
Investigation and Arrest
Police initiated an investigation after observing human remains in a vehicle near an abandoned cemetery on the outskirts of Philadelphia. This led to a search of a residence and storage unit belonging to Jonathan Christ Gerlach, 34, in Ephrata.
Authorities report that the investigation, which began in early November, focused on a series of break-ins at Mount Moriah Cemetery. At least 26 mausoleums and vaults were reportedly forced open during this period. Investigators identified Gerlach as a subject of interest after his vehicle was repeatedly located near the Yeadon area during the times of the reported burglaries.
Gerlach was apprehended as he returned to his car, reportedly carrying a crowbar and a burlap bag. The bag contained mummified remains of two small children, three skulls, and other bones.
Discoveries and Admissions
Searches of Gerlach's Ephrata home and storage unit yielded over 100 human skulls, long bones, mummified hands and feet, two decomposing torsos, and additional skeletal items. The remains were found in various conditions, with many located in the basement. Jewelry believed to be associated with the graves and a pacemaker still attached to some remains were also recovered.
Police indicate that Gerlach targeted sealed vaults and mausoleums at the 1855 cemetery, which is recognized as one of the country's largest abandoned burial grounds. Gerlach informed investigators that he had taken approximately 30 sets of human remains and identified the specific graves from which they were removed.
Charges and Legal Status
Gerlach faces 100 counts each of abuse of a corpse and receiving stolen property. Additionally, he is charged with multiple counts of desecrating a public monument, desecrating a venerated object, desecrating a historic burial place, burglary, trespassing, and theft. He is currently being held on a $1 million bond. No legal representation was listed in court records at the time of reporting.