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WALDORF, Md. -- More than 100 vases were stolen from gravesites at the Trinity Memorial Gardens, Charles County police said.
According to police, the thefts occurred on Sept. 21 and Sept. 24. They said the thieves entered the Memorial Gardens on Mattawoman Beantown Road in Waldorf and stole bronze vases that had been attached to headstones.
Police said they have received information concerning similar incidents in other areas. They said the motive for the theft could be resale of the vases as scrap metal.
The Charles County Sheriff's Office asked businesses that deal in scrap metal to contact them with information about anyone who attempts to sell the vases.
The cemetery's management said steps are being taken to prevent more thefts.
"We're very shocked and dismayed as an organization, and we feel that the community as well has been traumatized as we have been," said cemetery manager Ronald Abbit.
Those with loved ones and friends buried at the cemetery told News4 they are very upset by the crimes.
"That's disgusting," said Tricia Hunt, who has a friend buried at the cemetery. "These poor old people, you know, they're laid to rest and someone does that to them."
Betty Harvey said she believes the chain attaching an ornate bronze vase to her nephew's gravestone was broken by a thief who was interrupted before stealing the vase.
"You know it's sad for real because I come out here all the time and I've noticed the chains being broken but I never heard about nobody going through the gravesite stealing," she said.
Charles County Crime Solvers offered a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case.
Anyone with information should call 866-411-TIPS. All callers may remain anonymous.
CRoyal said:Nothing suprises me from people anymore I swear..
perky I hope your dad's site is undisturbed.
Pandora said:Most of the thefts occurred in "The Garden of Life" which is in the back section of the cemetery but the manager is currently in the process of doing an inventory and check of the entire grounds and compiling a list. My husband heard about it and wanted to check my mom’s and sister’s grave on the way home from work last night around 11:00 p.m. but the press presence was overwhelming at the entrance.
The number over there is (301) 932-8900 (301) 843-2651 (301) 274-9564 but be warned, they are swamped with calls.
Gee, I guess that would be a post'diction then, huh?MMDad said:It was on the news last night. Good prediction.