A historic site at Oakland University has been marred by vandalism, but the community response has been swift and determined. Meadow Brook Hall, a Tudor revival-style estate and cultural center, was subject to an act of vandalism when two of its historic stained-glass windows were shattered in the early hours of February 3rd. The suspect, Caleb Punches, 27, from Clarkston, has been charged with malicious destruction of a building and breaking, as reported by ClickOnDetroit.
Following a tip from an anonymous source, Punches was apprehended and arraigned on Tuesday. According to The Detroit News, he was then released on a bond set at $10,000. The damaged stained-glass windows, which date back to the home's original construction in 1929, are valued at approximately $35,000. Officials from Oakland University have reported that, with donations and a recent grant, they expect to replace the windows later this year.
Bill Matt, the executive director of Meadow Brook Hall, expressed the collective dismay caused by the incident, stating, "This act of vandalism has been a very upsetting situation for all of us." He credited the Oakland University Police Department for their excellent work in apprehending the responsible party, as detailed in a statement by Detroit Free Press. The university's media relations director, Brian Bierley, informed the public that the suspect faces a felony and a misdemeanor charge and is expected back in court for a follow-up on the case.
Meanwhile, the community has rallied around Meadow Brook Hall. A new fundraising initiative, the 1929 Club, asks members to donate $19.29 monthly to support the restoration efforts.
