Stanton, KY — A Kentucky man is facing serious charges after his Halloween decorations sparked alarm in his community. Police say five fake bodies wrapped in trash bags were found outside his home, each labeled with the names of local officials, including the mayor and a district judge.
Authorities identified the homeowner as Stephan Marcum, who has reportedly been in a long-running dispute with the city over water, sewer, and electrical service violations.
Disturbing Discovery Raises Alarm
According to LEX18-TV, officers were called to Marcum’s residence on October 4 after neighbors reported the disturbing display. When police arrived, they discovered five life-sized figures in black trash bags arranged outside the home. Each “body” was labeled with the name of a public official:
- District Judge
- Mayor
- SIS (a local inspector or agency reference)
- C.A. (possibly city attorney)
- Zoning Manager
“They looked like human bodies wrapped in bags,” a responding officer said. “Given the names attached, it was concerning enough to treat as a potential threat.”
Ongoing Dispute With City Officials
Police say Marcum’s tensions with the city stem from ongoing code violations. He had been ordered to connect to legal utility services, but allegedly failed to comply.
The display reportedly appeared just days after a September 30 court hearing over those violations, suggesting the fake bodies may have been meant to intimidate or threaten city officials involved in the case.
“The timing and the nature of the display made it impossible to ignore,” one official told local reporters. “It crossed the line from poor taste into a criminal act.”
Criminal Charges Filed
Marcum was arrested and charged with intimidating a witness in the legal process and third-degree terroristic threatening. Authorities said that while Halloween decorations can often be dark or provocative, these were seen as explicit threats against government officials.
“There’s a difference between spooky decor and deliberate intimidation,” police stated.
The case is being reviewed by the Powell County Attorney’s Office, which could add further charges depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Community Reaction
The display has left many Stanton residents shaken, especially given the small-town setting where city employees and officials are well-known in the community.
Neighbors told reporters they initially thought the decorations were part of a Halloween joke until they saw the labels. Others expressed fear and frustration that such acts could escalate ongoing tensions.
Local leaders have urged residents to report concerning displays or threats immediately and reminded the public that free speech does not extend to acts of intimidation or violence.
A Chilling Reminder
While Marcum’s decorations may have been meant as a protest or prank, the charges highlight how symbolic threats against public officials can quickly become criminal matters.
The case underscores the importance of separating legitimate dissent from targeted intimidation, especially as Halloween approaches and public displays become more common.
What are your thoughts on this unusual case — harmless Halloween stunt or a serious threat? Share your views in the comments below.
