Stealing loved one’s sentimental belongings in sacred places…despicable

On the news recently, I was very disturbed to hear of over 300 thefts at mausoleums and cemeteries across the Greater Toronto Area.

The suspects targeted jewelry, decorative cremation urns, keepsakes, and other valuables often stored in [cremation] niches. Many of the urn niches have a glass front so items can be seen along with the accompanying urn.

Example of urn niches with open glass fronts.

In a statement by the Halton, Ontario Deputy Police Chief, “These crimes are deeply disturbing and strike at the heart of our community’s sense of dignity and compassion, to violate spaces meant for remembrance and peace is both callous and reprehensible. Our thoughts are with the families who have been impacted by these thefts.”

I hope this never happens again.