Thieves struck a cemetery in California, stealing more than 100 name plaques from gravestones, in a shocking act of burglary and vandalism. The incident occurred at Lincoln Memorial Park in Carson, Los Angeles County, early Friday morning, according to officials from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. This follows a similar theft that took place about a week earlier at Woodlawn Celestial Gardens in Compton.
The stolen items included bronze nameplates from mausoleum graves and a significant plaque commemorating African American veterans of World War II. The latter was donated in 1944 by renowned boxer Joe Louis. Notably, Lincoln Memorial Park holds historical significance as one of the first integrated cemeteries in Los Angeles County.
Community advocate Aisha Woods expressed her dismay, stating, “It takes a lot of force to pry this off.” She showcased one plaque that had been bent but not fully removed from the stone. The thieves even left their tools near the large bust of President Lincoln located in the veteran’s memorial, indicating their audacious attempts to target valuable bronze items.
Woods believes that the stolen items are likely being pawned off to resellers or recycling companies. The thieves seemed to have used a substance to remove the patina from the President Lincoln bust, possibly to determine the metal used in its construction.
In response to the thefts, families have resorted to placing tape on their loved ones’ graves as a temporary replacement for the missing plaques. Despite attempts to involve the Veteran’s Administration for assistance, including the possibility of donating a camera security system, no progress has been made so far.
“We desperately need the public’s help,” pleaded Woods. The lack of security measures and surveillance cameras puts the cemetery at risk of further incidents. Without adequate support, the sanctity of Lincoln Memorial Park may be compromised, making it difficult for people to visit their loved ones.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and community involvement to safeguard cherished spaces and honor the memory of those who have passed away.
