Graves desired: Investigations after vandalism in Lower Austria!

Graves desired: Investigations after vandalism in Lower Austria!

The last few weeks have caused horror in Lower Austria and Vienna. Graves were openly opened on several cemeteries, including two in Lower Austria. According to [5min.at] (https://www.5min.at/5202506210736/ Mehrere-graeber-in-niederöesterreich-schutch-germittlungen-laufen/) there were a total of 21 cases: 13 in Weidling (municipality of Klosterneuburg) and 8 in Wagram (district of Tulln). Coffins were broken up or cut open - this is not only an attack on the deceased, but also on the feelings of their relatives.

The incidents do not happen for the first time. In Vienna there have been 60 cases of grave refraction since summer 2024, which also horrified many people. It is particularly tragic that among the shallow graves can also be found by Roma, Sinti and Holocaust survivors. It turns out that vandalism in this form is not an isolated phenomenon and has to be prosecuted. The State Criminal Police Office has now taken over the investigation in the current cases. However, there is currently no evidence of the perpetrator.

A look at the desecration of grave

Desolement of grave, as described here, is much more than just a terrible act against the dead; It is also a violation of the pietary feeling of the bereaved. According to Wikipedia, this willful damage or destruction of graves represents a criminal offense that can be pursued in Austria in accordance with Section 190 of the Criminal Code. The prevailing opinion assumes that this violates both the postmortal personal right of the deceased and the feeling of relatives. Such acts are not only a massive loss of trust in the community, but also represent a severe moral assault.

The discussion about the desecration of grave is a highly sensitive topic in many countries. While in Germany the exact definitions of the facts are being debated, the laws in Austria are clear: Every unauthorized interference in a grave can be assessed as an administrative offense in accordance with the cemetery regulations. In some cases, this could even fulfill the facts of the theft if objects are removed from graves.

The recent incidents in Lower Austria and Vienna show that these shocking acts continue to be a serious challenge for society. The investigation is in full swing - and the hope remains that the perpetrators can soon be held accountable. Such actions must not remain without consequences, because they violate the feeling of security and respect that every person deserves - even after his death.

For more information on the current investigations, you can read the article by ORF Niederösterreich