Police are appealing for witnesses or information following a number of thefts from cemeteries in Cheshunt and Hoddesdon.
Numerous reports have been received of items stolen from graves in both cemeteries between Thursday July 6 and Saturday July 8. Several brass and bronze statues, as well as other items of personal value have been taken.
Speaking on behalf of the victims, local resident Nick Vaccaro said: “This has been a heart breaking event for myself and the other families who have suffered from these crimes. We are a tight knit community and I have set up a social media group for the families affected and other families who have not been affected, but wanted to support those that have, to keep everyone informed of developments in the investigation. I will be speaking to the local council, police and other agencies about the need for improved security at both Hoddesdon and Cheshunt cemeteries, as both have been targeted before.
“As you can imagine all of us who have had our loved ones’ graves desecrated are very upset and we would urge anyone who has any information about these thefts to contact the police.”
Detective Constable Holly Dawson from the Broxbourne Local Crime Unit is investigating and said: “These thefts have caused a great deal of upset to the victims. These are terrible crimes and have deeply affected the families, who would dearly love to recover these stolen items.
“The statues and other items are precious to the families and are very distinctive. If you see similar items being offered for sale please report it to the police immediately.”
Please quote crime reference K1/17/1668 when calling or report information online at www.contacthertspolice.uk/Report/Crime. Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
