Troopers investigating graveyard theft

WASILLA — Vandals damaged two monuments at a local cemetery and made off with about $3,000 in saws and specialized tools, authorities said.

Alaska state troopers said they started investigating the vandalism and theft about noon Saturday, after officials with the Anchorage Archdiocese reported the crimes.

A neighbor noticed locks had been cut from the gate at the Sacred Heart Cemetery along Edlund Road late last week, said Les Maiman, chancellor with the Anchorage Archdiocese. One of the headstones was driven over, and the other was shot at, Maiman said. No objects were taken from any graves, and no graves were disturbed, apart from the damage to the monuments, according to Maiman. The tools and other things were taken from a utility shed located on the property, Maiman said.

“We just believe it’s vandalism, and we’re certainly saddened by someone disrespecting a cemetery, which we hold as sacred space,” he said.

Cemetery vandalism is relatively uncommon, Maiman said.

Alaska State Troopers said one of the damaged monuments was a headstone.

The incident remains under investigation, according to troopers. They urged anyone with information to call them at 745-2131.

Here’s what troopers wrote about the incident:

On 2/13/2016 at 1210 hours, Alaska State Troopers responded to the a local Cemetery Located on Edlund Road, Wasilla following the report of a theft and vandalism. Investigation revealed unknown suspect(s) entered the property and stole several items. Further investigation revealed the suspect(s) damaged a grave stone on the property. Anyone with information on this case is encouraged to contact the State Troopers at (907) 745-2131.

Contact reporter Brian O’Connor at 352-2270, brian.oconnor@frontiersman.com, or on Twitter @reporterbriano.