Cemetery Vandalized – $40,000 In Damage

MISCHIEF AT MITCHELL CEMETERY 2013-07-17

(MUNICIPALITY OF WEST PERTH, ON) On Monday July 15, 2013, Perth County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers in Mitchell were called to the Grace Lutheran Cemetery on St George St. in response to a complaint of vandalism.

It was discovered that between 6 p.m. on Friday July 12th and 5:30 p.m. on Monday July 15th, unknown persons pushed over and damaged a large number of tombstones. The damage had taken place in the oldest section of the cemetery where the tombstones are more delicate in nature and have uneven support bases.

The culprits pushed memorial stone pieces from their bases. Some of the pushed over stones struck adjacent stones resulting in chipping and damage. Ornamental details were also broken off of some stone carvings.

Repairing the damage could cost between $30,000.00 and $40,000.00

The cemetery is surrounded by numerous residences therefore someone may have heard or seen activity during the time in question. Investigators are requesting anyone with information about this mischief to contact them at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), and you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

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