Kentucky Man Arrested After Halloween Display Depicted Local Officials in Fake Body Bags

STANTON, KENTUCKY – A Kentucky man who decorated his yard with fake body bags labeled with the titles of local government officials has been arrested and charged with making terroristic threats, police said.

“Kinda Harsh” Display Caught Officials’ Attention

According to WKYT-TV, Stephan Marcum, 58, set up a Halloween display outside his Powell County home featuring five body bags, one hanging from a noose and labeled “District Judge.” Others were tagged “Mayor” and “Zoning Manager.”

The unsettling decorations caught the eye of Commonwealth’s Attorney Miranda King, who immediately reported them to the Kentucky State Police. Officers arrived at Marcum’s property on October 6 and took him into custody.

He was booked into the Powell County Jail, where he remains held pending further court proceedings.

Long-Running Dispute With the City

Authorities said the display appears to be linked to Marcum’s ongoing feud with local zoning officials.

Powell County Judge Eddie Barnes told NBC News that Marcum has repeatedly refused to bring his property into compliance with housing regulations requiring running water, sewer, and electricity.

Neighbors had complained that Marcum was using a bucket as a toilet and dumping its contents outdoors.

Barnes said he’s known Marcum for years but was stunned when he drove past the display.

“At first, I didn’t know what to think about it,” Barnes said. “I actually drove by and saw it in his yard, and I’m thinking, you know, wow — that’s kinda harsh.”

Judge Recuses Himself From Case

Adding to the controversy, the district judge originally assigned to the case recused himself after realizing he was likely depicted in the display. Barnes confirmed that the judge is currently handling Marcum’s zoning case.

While Barnes said he doesn’t believe Marcum poses a physical threat, he acknowledged that the display went far beyond free expression.

“That’s not the way to make a point,” he said.

Marcum remains jailed as prosecutors review the case. For updates on unusual crime stories and community news from across the Midwest and South, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.