Man repeatedly vandalized grave due to a 56-year-old grudge

It's often said that forgiveness frees the soul, but many prefer taking a different path towards inner peace.

In the case of Paul E. Donovan Jr., a 69-year-old man from Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, that route involved repeatedly vandalizing the grave of the man he claims stole $300 from him over 50 years ago.

The defacing of the headstone began in the spring of 2014 and typically involved the use of spray paint, though he did once cover the marker with a dark, tar-like substance, reports WCAU.

The authorities set up hidden cameras to catch the vandal.

According to the official police complaint, after being caught, Donovan said he was willing to, "pay back any restitution minus the $300 he was owed over 56 years ago."

On Tuesday, he pleaded guilty to the offenses in court.

In addition to being ordered to pay the family, Donovan was placed on a 2-year probation.

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