Sloppy Corpse Thief Left Trail of Evidence

Authorities in Pennsylvania have charged Jonathan Gerlach with multiple offenses, including abuse of corpse, following allegations of stealing more than 100 sets of human remains. Prosecutors described Gerlach's alleged criminal activities as exceptionally sloppy, detailing how he left behind evidence like cigarette packs and energy drink cans at the scenes of grave burglaries. The investigation revealed that Gerlach had targeted several underground vaults, using tools purchased with his rewards card.

Gerlach's Ephrata home reportedly became a disturbing repository, with approximately 100 full or partial human skeletons discovered in his basement. His family members allegedly witnessed a partially decomposed corpse hanging in the basement but were too frightened to report it to the police. The suspect also admitted to selling some of the stolen remains online, though this constituted only a portion of his alleged illicit collection.

Further details from legal documents indicate Gerlach's methods involved breaking into mausoleums and cemeteries, sometimes descending into crypts via ropes. Evidence such as a nylon rope with a carabiner was found at one crime scene. The Delaware County District Attorney's office has levied charges including criminal mischief, trespass, and desecration of a monument against Gerlach.