Man Charged for Carving Initials on Gettysburg Monuments

Lucas Reisinger faces hefty fines and prison time for alleged vandalism at historic Civil War site.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:31pm

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A 36-year-old man named Lucas Reisinger from Carlisle, Pennsylvania has been indicted for allegedly carving his initials into two monuments at Gettysburg National Military Park. Officials say Reisinger carved his initials into the 44th New York Infantry Monument plaque and the face of Colonel Patrick O'Rourke on the 140th New York Infantry Monument back in September.

Why it matters

Gettysburg National Military Park is a hallowed site that commemorates one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War. Any acts of vandalism or defacement of the monuments and memorials there are considered egregious offenses that can carry severe legal penalties.

The details

According to authorities, Reisinger faces a maximum fine of $250,000 and up to 10 years in prison for each charge related to the alleged vandalism incidents.

  • In September 2026, Reisinger allegedly carved his initials into the monuments.

The players

Lucas Reisinger

A 36-year-old man from Carlisle, Pennsylvania who has been indicted for allegedly carving his initials into two monuments at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Gettysburg National Military Park

A U.S. National Military Park that preserves the site of the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War.

44th New York Infantry Monument

A monument at Gettysburg National Military Park that commemorates the 44th New York Infantry Regiment, which fought in the battle.

Colonel Patrick O'Rourke

A colonel in the 140th New York Infantry Regiment who was killed during the Battle of Gettysburg.

140th New York Infantry Monument

A monument at Gettysburg National Military Park that commemorates the 140th New York Infantry Regiment, which fought in the battle.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow Reisinger to be released on bail at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving and respecting the hallowed ground of Gettysburg, where thousands of Americans lost their lives during a pivotal battle of the Civil War. Any acts of vandalism at this historic site will be met with serious legal consequences.