GRAND FORKS COUNTY (trfnews.i234.me) — A disturbing act of vandalism has marred a sacred monument in Grand Forks. The bronze statue at the Northern Valley Law Enforcement Memorial, valued at over $415,000, was intentionally damaged, and the culprit remains unknown, according to the Grand Forks Police Department.
The statue, which was dedicated in May 2023 and stands in Optimist Park at 4601 Cherry St., honors fallen officers from northeast North Dakota, northwest Minnesota, and Manitoba, Canada. It now features a large crack in the bronze rose held by the statue’s figure.
According to Grand Forks County Commissioner Bob Rost, it appears someone kicked the rose, attempting to break it off the statue in what seems like a targeted act of disrespect.
The vandalism was reported on Sunday, April 15, but exact timing remains unclear, said GFPD Lt. Andrew Stein. As of Thursday, April 17, no witnesses have come forward, and no suspects have been identified.
Authorities are urging the public to assist in identifying the person responsible. If you witnessed anything suspicious or have information, you are asked to contact the Grand Forks Police Department at (701) 787-8000, through their Facebook page, official website, or Tip411 app.
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Did you know?
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The Northern Valley Law Enforcement Memorial was funded through community and regional donations, totaling over $415,000.
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Vandalizing a memorial of this significance could lead to felony criminal charges in North Dakota.
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The damaged statue represents cross-border unity, honoring officers from the U.S. and Canada who made the ultimate sacrifice.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News
