Man in court after crucifix 'torched' and gravestones damaged at Scots cemetery
A man has appeared in court after a crucifix was "torched" and gravestones were damaged at a Scots cemetery.
Grzegorz Strzelecki appered at Paisley Sheriff Court on June 30 following a probe into reports of vandalism at St Conval's Cemetery, Barrhead, in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The 39-year-old was charged with wilful fire-raising, malicious mischief, breach of the peace and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and admission that weapon was carried with intended use to injure someone.
Strzelecki, of no fixed abode, made no plea, was committed for further examination and remanded in custody. He is set to be back in the dock within the next eight days.
The Diocese of Paisley reported that after entering the cemetery grounds "those responsible attacked around 40 headstones, with some being demolished".
Pictures also showed that a five-metre-high wooden crucifix was set on fire.
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The Bishop of Paisley, Bishop John Keenan previously said: 'I am saddened and dismayed.
'My thoughts and prayers are with the families, as well as with the whole community of relatives and friends who visit St Conval's and care for the graves of their loved ones so tenderly.'
The bishop added: 'My gratitude goes to the St Conval's staff who maintain the grounds and administer the cemetery.'
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