Salisbury's veterans memorial has once again become the scene of a flag theft, with police releasing photos Tuesday of people they say they want to identify after roughly 200 American flags were stolen and vandalized at the site. According to the department, the flags were taken on May 17 and replaced the following day.
Police Share Photos, Ask Public to Weigh In
In a Facebook post, the Salisbury Police Department said the released images show persons of interest in the theft and vandalism of about 200 American flags at Salisbury Veterans Memorial Park. The department noted that the theft happened on May 17 and that the flags were put back in place on May 18.
Investigators emphasized in the post that all information provided by the public will be kept confidential, signaling they are counting on residents to help them connect the dots on who was behind the vandalism.
Where the Flag Display Stands
The flags were taken from the Patriots Flag Concourse and Memorial next to City Park, a high-visibility spot that serves as a kind of front porch for local veterans tributes. The City of Salisbury's Parks & Recreation site lists the Patriots Flag Concourse at 305 W Miller St in Salisbury.
According to City of Salisbury Parks & Recreation, the concourse includes memorial walls and serves as a focal point for ceremonies and remembrances honoring veterans.
How Residents Can Help
Police are asking anyone who recognizes the individuals in the photos to reach out directly. Tipsters are urged to contact Sgt. D. Scott or MPO S. Wolf at 704-638-5333. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 866-639-5245, according to the Salisbury Police Department. The department reiterated that all tips will be kept confidential.
A Memorial With a Troubling Pattern
This is not the first time the Patriots Flag Concourse has been hit. WBTV reported in 2023 that dozens of small American flags at the concourse were found damaged and scattered ahead of Memorial Day. That earlier case highlighted how the display has become a recurring target around significant holidays.
Police say the current investigation remains active and that they are still reviewing leads. Investigators have publicly thanked the residents who stepped in to help restore the flag display. Anyone with information is encouraged to use the contact numbers provided by the department or to send an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers.
