Cape May, January 22, 2026
In Cape May, a 29-year-old man has been charged with vandalism for damaging a beloved Humpty Dumpty statue at a local miniature golf course. The incident occurred early in the morning, leading to significant damage estimated at $1,000. The suspect, Blane C. Dongas, turned himself in after police identified him through surveillance footage and tips from the community. The local community expressed strong support for restoring the iconic statue, impacting both sentiment and local business.
Cape May, New Jersey – Man Charged in Humpty Dumpty Statue Vandalism
A 29-year-old man from Dallas, Pennsylvania, has been charged with vandalizing a Humpty Dumpty statue at the Ocean Putt Miniature Golf Course in Cape May. The suspect, Blane C. Dongas, turned himself in to authorities on January 19, 2026, and faces charges of criminal mischief and trespassing.
Details of the Incident
The vandalism took place on September 7, 2025, around 4:10 a.m., when surveillance footage captured an individual climbing over the fence of the Ocean Putt Miniature Golf Course. The suspect forcibly removed the fiberglass Humpty Dumpty statue from its base and discarded it several blocks away on Jackson Avenue. The damage to the statue was estimated at $1,000, with a replacement value of approximately $2,000.
Investigation and Arrest
Following the incident, Cape May police posted surveillance images on their Facebook page to solicit public assistance. An anonymous tip led to the identification of Dongas. Further investigation, including a search of his phone records, confirmed his presence at the scene. Dongas surrendered to Cape May police to face charges on January 19, 2026.
Background on the Statue
The Humpty Dumpty statue was a cherished landmark at the Ocean Putt Miniature Golf Course, a family-owned business in Cape May since 1964. The loss of the statue significantly impacted the local community both sentimentally and financially.
Community Response
Local residents and visitors expressed their support for the statue’s restoration following the incident. The Cape May Police Department acknowledged the community’s help in resolving the case and highlighted the significance of public cooperation in investigations.
Legal Proceedings
Dongas has been processed and released on a summons and is awaiting court proceedings. The Cape May Police Department has stated they will work with the community to facilitate the statue’s restoration and address any related concerns.
FAQ
- Who is the suspect in the vandalism case?
- The suspect is Blane C. Dongas, a 29-year-old man from Dallas, Pennsylvania.
- When did the vandalism occur?
- The incident took place on September 7, 2025, at approximately 4:10 a.m.
- What charges has the suspect faced?
- Dongas has been charged with criminal mischief and trespassing.
- What was the damage to the statue?
- The damage to the Humpty Dumpty statue was estimated at $1,000, with a replacement value of approximately $2,000.
- How did the police identify the suspect?
- Police identified the suspect through surveillance footage and an anonymous tip, which led to further investigation and confirmation of his presence at the scene.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Blane C. Dongas, 29, from Dallas, Pennsylvania |
| Incident Date | September 7, 2025, at approximately 4:10 a.m. |
| Charges | Criminal mischief and trespassing |
| Damage Estimate | $1,000, with a replacement value of approximately $2,000 |
| Investigation | Surveillance footage and anonymous tip led to identification |
| Community Response | Support for statue restoration and appreciation for public assistance |
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Man Charged for Vandalizing Humpty Dumpty Statue in Cape May
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
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