Law enforcement investigating thefts from area cemeteries

The Hardin County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anybody with possible information to come forward following reports of vandalism and theft at several area cemeteries.

“We received information about a theft at Elizabethtown Memorial Gardens off one of the memorials: a large-size bronze plaque with the images of two children that were killed within 11 days apart,” said Hardin County Sheriff John Ward.

That report was followed by others.

“Radcliff Police also have an investigation ongoing,” Ward said. “They’ve recovered quite a bit of bronze that’s been busted up to try to sell. We also have another investigation from Saint Clare Cemetery.”

Ward says the sheriff’s office is actively investigating. Local metal recyclers have also been notified.

“I mean, how much lower can you go, to desecrate a grave like that?” Ward said. “And what people don’t realize is that’s a class D felony, punishable by one to five years in prison.”

Anybody who notices theft or vandalism at any cemeteries in the county is asked to file a report with the sheriff’s office by calling 270-765-5133.