Police in OPP apprehended an individual suspected of stealing brass fixtures from Waterford's cemetery.

In a series of unfortunate events, several cemeteries in Norfolk County have been targeted by thieves in recent weeks. The Norfolk County detachment of Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has been patrolling the Waterford Greenwood Cemetery and other affected areas, following reports of thefts and vandalism.

On Tuesday, officers made a significant arrest. A 39-year-old man from Oxford County was charged with mischief, possession of property obtained by crime, and theft, after brass fixtures were found stolen from the Waterford Greenwood Cemetery. The officer, upon noticing a suspicious sedan leaving the cemetery around 10:26 a.m., followed the vehicle and found numerous items, including the stolen brass fixtures, inside the sedan. The driver was arrested without incident.

However, the identity of the person who stole the brass attachments from Waterford Greenwood Cemetery and was arrested on July 1st remains undisclosed to the public.

Other cemeteries in the region, including the Delhi Cemetery, the Port Dover Cemetery, Sacred Heart Cemetery in Langton, Bayview Cemetery in Port Rowan, and Avondale Cemetery in Stratford, have also experienced thefts. Brass and bronze items, such as plaques, statues, and a lantern, were stolen or damaged at the Avondale Cemetery in Stratford, with similar incidents occurring at the end of May. To date, no arrests or charges have been laid in these cases.

Const. Andrew Gamble, the community engagement officer for Norfolk County OPP, expressed his concerns about these acts, stating that they are deeply concerning and cause additional hardship for families already dealing with the loss of loved ones. He urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near cemeteries immediately.

Proactive patrols have been increased due to these recent thefts at local cemeteries. Anyone with information is asked to contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.helpsolvecrime.com.

The community is reminded to respect the sanctity of cemeteries and to refrain from any activities that may cause harm or distress to the families and friends of the deceased.