WESTMINSTER, Md. -- Vandals struck one of Carroll County's oldest family cemeteries this week, damaging at least eight tombstones and stealing five footstones, WBAL-TV 11 News reporter Rob Roblin reported.

Video

Rob Roblin Reports: Cemetery Vandals Cause Financial, Emotional Damage

Authorities told 11 News that the vandals caused $5,000 worth of damage to the Gist Family Cemetery where some graves have remained since 1839.

"When I first saw it, I thought it could possibly be juveniles acting as they do in the area. But it kind of disturbed me with it being an old cemetery and, on top of it all, these people's grave lots," Carroll County Sheriff's Deputy Gary Jenkins said.

Carroll County Sheriff's Maj. Tom Long told 11 News that whoever is responsible for the vandalism could face charges including destruction of property and specific charges of desecration of a cemetery and desecration of a grave.

The small cemetery, once the Gist family farmland, is now surrounded by new houses. Neighbors said the vandalism upsets them.

"It bothers me because I don't like anything happening in this neighborhood like that. You like everyone to keep an eye out. It's very disturbing," said Fannie Carr, who lives near the cemetery.

Harriet Zurl has six generations of relatives buried at the cemetery. She was out of town Thursday, but talked with 11 News via cell phone.

"I am angry because there's no reason for it. I don't think people understand that there are a lot of memories there," she said.

Call: As investigation continues, Carroll County authorities ask the public who might have information regarding the vandalism to call the sheriff's office by dialing (410) 386-2900.

Stay with TheWBALChannel.com and WBAL-TV 11 News for the latest news updates.

GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS: