Cape May, January 21, 2026
A 29-year-old man from Pennsylvania is facing charges for vandalizing a Humpty Dumpty statue at the Ocean Putt Miniature Golf Course in Cape May. The incident, which occurred in the early hours, involved removing the statue from its base and causing significant damage. Costs for repairs are estimated between $1,000 and $2,000. After surveillance footage was released, the suspect was identified through an anonymous tip. He has since surrendered to the police and awaits court proceedings.
Cape May, New Jersey
A 29-year-old man from Dallas, Pennsylvania, named Blane Dongas, has been charged with criminal mischief and trespassing after allegedly vandalizing a Humpty Dumpty statue at the Ocean Putt Miniature Golf Course. This incident took place on September 7, 2025, and was captured on surveillance cameras, showing the suspect climing a fence and removing the statue from its base before discarding it nearby. The statue has suffered considerable damage, with repair costs estimated between $1,000 and $2,000. Dongas surrendered to Cape May police on January 19, 2026, and was released on a summons while awaiting court proceedings.
Incident Details
At around 4 a.m. on September 7, 2025, the Ocean Putt Miniature Golf Course was the scene of a break-in captured by surveillance cameras. The footage revealed a man climbing a fence, approaching the Humpty Dumpty statue, and removing it from its foundation. The damaged statue was later discovered on a nearby property, with a broken top hat and one hand. Repair estimates range from $1,000 to $2,000.
Investigation and Arrest
Following the vandalism, Cape May police released the surveillance footage to solicit public assistance in identifying the suspect. An anonymous tip led to the identification of Blane Dongas. Further investigation, including a search warrant for his phone records, confirmed that he was present at the scene during the incident. Dongas was charged and subsequently released on a summons pending court action.
Background
The Ocean Putt Miniature Golf Course is a family-owned establishment that has been a fixture in Cape May since 1964. The Humpty Dumpty statue, a representation of the nursery rhyme character, has been a beloved landmark at the course for many years, making this vandalism particularly concerning to the local community.
Community Reaction
The vandalism has caused disappointment and concern among residents and visitors who view the statue as a significant piece of Cape May’s history. The community’s quick response in identifying the suspect has been seen as a positive step towards restoring this cherished landmark.
Legal Proceedings
Blane Dongas faces charges of criminal mischief and trespassing, with proceedings currently pending in the Cape May court system. The local community remains hopeful for a resolution that will allow the Humpty Dumpty statue to be repaired and returned to its rightful place at the golf course.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to the Humpty Dumpty statue at Ocean Putt Miniature Golf Course?
The statue was forcibly removed from its foundation and discarded nearby on September 7, 2025. It sustained significant damage, with repair costs estimated between $1,000 and $2,000.
Who is responsible for the vandalism?
Blane Dongas, a 29-year-old man from Dallas, Pennsylvania, has been charged with criminal mischief and trespassing in connection with the incident.
What is the current status of the statue?
The statue is currently damaged, and the golf course is seeking repairs. The community hopes for its restoration and return to the course.
How did authorities identify the suspect?
Surveillance footage was released to the public, leading to an anonymous tip that identified Dongas. A search warrant for his phone records confirmed his presence at the scene during the time of the crime.
What are the legal charges against Blane Dongas?
Dongas has been charged with criminal mischief and trespassing. The case is pending in the Cape May court system.
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