Memorials for fallen first responders and veterans vandalized
By Peyton Headlee
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SOLANO COUNTY, California (KCRA) — Memorials honoring fallen first responders and veterans in Solano County were vandalized this week, with bronze stars and plaques stolen from sites in Fairfield and Vallejo, sparking outrage and an investigation by authorities.
The Peace Officers Memorial in Fairfield, which honors 21 law enforcement officers who lost their lives in service to the county, was stripped of its bronze stars and plaques.
Solano County Sheriff Brad DeWall expressed his disbelief over the incident.
“Nothing like this has ever happened in my days here. Nothing like this ever,” he said. “I am outraged at the fact that someone would stoop so low to come and take a memorial star honoring that service and that sacrifice.”
One of the stolen stars was dedicated to Kirk Griess, a California Highway Patrol officer who died in 2018 after being hit by a car during a traffic stop on Interstate 80.
“My husband was a California Highway Patrol officer, rode motorcycle,” said Keri Griess, his widow. “Was just wonderful, loved what he did, was super involved in the community and would do anything for anybody at any time.”
Reflecting on the vandalism, Keri Griess said, “It’s just disheartening that someone would live in such an evil world that people can just walk in and take it all away.”
The thefts extended beyond the Peace Officers Memorial in Fairfield, with plaques stolen from nearby county buildings and the Veterans Memorial.
The first responder’s memorial outside Vallejo City Hall was also targeted.
“Anything that celebrates their fallen, it was all pried off the wall,” DeWall said.
Sheriff DeWall questioned the motives behind the thefts.
“Was it anti-law enforcement? Was it anti-government? Are we being targeted? But that is still being uncovered. Or is it greed for people that are just trying to recover the value of that material?” DeWall said.
In a statement, DeWall called the thefts “cowardly and disgraceful” and emphasized the significance of the stolen items.
“To those responsible: hear me clearly. You did not steal mere metal—you stole symbols of sacrifice, duty, courage, and patriotism. You violated places of remembrance that hold deep meaning for this county,” DeWall said.
The vandalism comes just weeks before the annual Peace Officers Memorial ceremony, where law enforcement, families, and community members gather to honor the 21 fallen officers. Authorities are working on temporary replacements for the stolen items while pursuing a long-term solution.
DeWall assured the community that every available resource is being dedicated to the investigation, with assistance from allied law enforcement partners throughout Solano County.
“We will work tirelessly to find you and ensure you are held fully accountable under the law,” DeWall said.
Anyone with information about the thefts is urged to contact Solano County Sheriff’s Office Investigations at 707-784-7050 or anonymously at 707-784-1963.
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