In a disturbing revelation, Pennsylvania authorities have charged 34-year-old Jonathan Gerlach with a multitude of crimes after uncovering more than 100 human skulls and remains at his home and a storage unit. The gruesome discovery came after a detailed investigation into a series of break-ins at Mount Moriah Cemetery.
Delaware County District Attorney Tanner Rouse announced the charges, which include abuse of a corpse, receiving stolen property, and burglary. The extent of the crimes was unveiled when Gerlach was apprehended leaving the cemetery grounds with a crowbar. A search revealed bones and skulls in the back seat of a vehicle parked near the historic cemetery on the outskirts of Philadelphia.
The case began to unfold around Halloween when officials noticed the mausoleum break-ins, and the investigation has since revealed a chilling scene. The remains, which varied significantly in age, with some dating back approximately 200 years, were found in different conditions and arrangements. Authorities also found mummified remains, including those of what are believed to be months-old infants, adding to the horror of the situation.
Detectives are now faced with the monumental task of identifying the remains and piecing together the full scope of Gerlach's alleged actions. Rouse described the scene as "an unbelievable scene" and "a horror movie come to life." The complexity of the case is evident, given the age range of the remains and the emotional impact on the community.
Gerlach had been a member of a Facebook group related to the sale of human bones and skulls, and although he posted photographs of himself with a skull, there has been no confirmation of any sales. He now faces 100 counts each of abuse of a corpse and receiving stolen property, along with multiple counts of desecrating a public monument, desecrating a venerated object, desecrating a historic burial place, burglary, trespassing, theft, and criminal mischief. He is being held on a $1 million bond.
This case has sent shockwaves through the local community, as families are left to wonder if their loved ones' resting places have been disturbed. The identification process is expected to be lengthy and challenging, given the historical nature of some of the remains. As the investigation continues, authorities are committed to bringing closure to the affected families and ensuring justice is served.
