Detectives Investigate After Discovering Spray Paint On Fallen Officer Memorial
By David Spunt
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia Police detectives are investigating after someone spray painted a plaque honoring a fallen officer who died almost 50 years ago.
Officer George Jacobs was 29-years-old when he was shot and killed on Snyder Avenue near Broad Street on July 15, 1966. Jacobs was on the job just a few weeks when he was killed.
"When I heard he got killed it really tore me apart," retired police officer Joe Haggerty told Eyewitness News.
Earlier this week, Eyewitness News obtained a photograph showing Jacobs' plaque with green spray paint. Haggerty and Jacobs were friends who grew up in South Philadelphia, and he was upset to hear about the vandalism.
FOP President John McNesby told Eyewitness News the plaque was repaired earlier this week, after police officers noticed the spray paint. Joe Haggerty said he hopes detectives catch the vandal who ruined the plaque honoring his friend.
"He was a good guy and if he had a chance to help somebody do something, then he would help you out," Haggerty said.
Officer Jacobs' killer was convicted and sent to prison. Detectives are looking for any information about to the vandalism. If you have any information, call Philadelphia Police.
To submit a tip via telephone, dial 215-686-TIPS (8477) or text a tip to PPD TIP or 773847 or visit https://www.phillypolice.com/forms/submit-a-tip/index.html.
