by Nick R. Hamilton
A Pennsylvania man accused of stealing and hoarding human remains from a historic cemetery is facing nearly 500 criminal charges, in a case prosecutors say resembles “a horror movie come to life.”
According to reports, 34-year-old Jonathan Gerlach appeared in Delaware County court, where he waived his right to an evidentiary hearing.
Authorities allege he stole more than 100 sets of human remains from cemeteries across multiple counties.
Disturbing Discovery Uncovered by Investigators
The case began with an investigation into repeated break-ins at Mount Moriah Cemetery near Philadelphia.
According to reports, police conducting surveillance observed Gerlach leaving the cemetery carrying tools, including a crowbar and a burlap bag.
Officers later discovered skulls and bones inside his vehicle.
Following his arrest in January, investigators searched his home and a storage unit, where they reportedly uncovered a large collection of human remains.
Authorities said the findings included skulls, long bones, mummified body parts, and even decomposing torsos.
Delaware County District Attorney Tanner Rouse described the scene bluntly.
“Very simply, detectives walked into a horror movie come to life in that home,” Rouse said.
He added, “They were in various states.