Police say 5th suspect in Christmas Day vandalism spree at Frankenmuth store turns self in

12/30/2010

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. — A fifth suspect has turned himself in to authorities in a Christmas Day vandalism spree at a popular Christmas-themed store in mid-Michigan.

Frankenmuth Police Detective Randy Flathau tells The Saginaw News that he interviewed and released the suspect pending charges expected Thursday.

Four male suspects from Genesee Township, aged 17 to 21, remain jailed while Saginaw County prosecutors decide on charges.

Vandals last Saturday pummeled a life-sized Santa and his reindeer, split a nutcracker in half, and smashed and dismembering several other holiday displays at the Bavarian-themed tourist destination in Frankenmuth. About 75 figures were damaged.

Chief executive Wayne Bronner told The Associated Press damage was estimated at $50,000.

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Information from: The Saginaw News