Woman faces charges following Milton graveyard thefts

Halton police have charged a woman in connection with an investigation into a series of thefts at Milton Evergreen Cemetery.

In July, officers were contacted by the cemetery after families reported a series of thefts. 

Investigators say the thefts began in late June and items reported stolen include lanterns, shepherd hooks, candles, potted plants and other keepsakes left near gravesites. 

Detectives say in total about 20 families reported missing items.

On Saturday, police executed a search warrant at a home in Milton.

Officers seized items reported stolen, along with dozens of other items believed to have been taken from gravesites.

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Investigators say while the monetary value of some of these items may be relatively low, many hold significant sentimental value for the families who placed them at their loved ones’ gravesites. 

On Saturday, detectives arrested Diana Anderson, 57, of Milton. She has been charged with one count of theft under $5,000 and four counts of possession of property obtained by crime.

Police say additional charges are expected as officers work to identify further victims and document the recovered property. 

Investigators believe there may be additional victims who have not yet discovered that items have been stolen from their gravesites.

Anyone who believes they may have had items stolen from Milton Evergreen Cemetery in recent months is encouraged to contact officers by email at PT1@haltonpolice.ca.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the police at 905-825-4777 ext. 2416.

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