Deputy Steve Driver arrested seven suspects for unlawful assembly and attempted grave robbing late Friday night. While on routine patrol on North Hill, Deputy Driver happened on what could only be called a graveside seance. A motley group of six females and one male was gathered at a grave in the cemetery on the grounds of the Blackstone Asylum.
Deputy Driver captured the bizarre scene on videotape. Blackstone patrol cars have been equipped with video surveillance cameras mounted on the dashboards since April, but this is the first time a video will be used as evidence.
The suspects were armed with shovels, pitchforks, Dust Buster vaccuums, and an Ouija Board. While a few of the group attempted to dig up the grave, some of the others tried to contact spirits with the Ouija Board. "I couldn't believe my eyes," Officer Driver said. "I thought I was in Salem, not Blackstone."
When the suspects realized the jig was up, they attempted to flee in a red 4x4. Deputy Driver was able to disable the vehicle by shooting the four tires flat with a dart gun.
The suspects have been identified as Lea Jett, Con Vicks, Kay Pete, Lil' Eva, Nanny Sea, Maddy Lane, and Dunn Oh. "Obviously, these are aliases. There is no doubt in my mind that we will get to the truth soon." Driver said.
The seven are being held at the Blackstone station house until they produce legitimate identification.