BORDENTOWN, NJ – State Police are seeking assistance from the public in identifying three individuals connected to an act of criminal mischief in Hainesport Township, Burlington County. The incident, which occurred on August 9, involved multiple graffiti markings on a well-known statue owned by the township, referred to as “Big Rusty.”
Created in 2023, a 20-foot-tall sculpture made from recycled materials now sits off Route 38, transforming a local abandoned pottery studio into an art landmark.
The creation, named “Big Rusty,” is the brainchild of Thomas Dambo, a recycled art activist from Denmark. The sculpture is strategically positioned with its left arm casually resting on the studio, which provided the artist with thousands of recycled components. The property is set to be converted into a park in the near future.
Big Rusty consists of thousands of parts collected from the property itself. Among the components are a rusty metal roof, a plywood attic, concrete walls, and old pallets. The sculpture serves as a statement for sustainable art, attracting the attention of locals and tourists alike.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or who recognizes the suspects to contact Trooper Joseph Couzo at Bordentown Station by calling 609-298-1171 x 5174. Anonymous tips are also encouraged.
