Vandalism at Glenwood Cemetery

Glenwood Cemetery and local police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying vandals who have systematically toppled headstones and monuments recently at the site, causing damage estimated in the thousands.

Glenwood Cemetery board chair Sandra Latchford said the vandals have smashed benches and knocked over at least 200 headstones.

“It’s just destructive, it’s just incredible,” said Latchford. “We just can’t believe it, we’re stunned

Prince Edward OPP are involved and are working with Glenwood’s board and staff.

Latchford is hoping that publicity through social and traditional media will help identify the culprits.

“We’re hoping that if they saw something or heard something and didn’t realize the significance of it at the time, that they will then report it to the police,” she said. “We also need people to listen and report anything they’ve heard through the grapevine in the community.”

The vandals need to be told clearly that their actions are unacceptable, Latchford said. If they’re attacking Glenwood, they’re very likely to cause damage to other places as well. She suggested now that the cemetery is more alert, it could be another site receiving the brunt.

“It’s a community issue,” she said. “… As a community, we need to be really, really vigilant and watchful and report information.”

Locals looking to help offset the cost of the damage can donate directly to the cemetery, just be sure to identify the funds as being for the repairs.

Those with information who would like to remain anonymous can contact Glenwood, Latchford said.

Anyone with information about the incident can also contact the OPP Provincial Communications Centre at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.