Mansfield Police Deny Reports Of 'String Of Thefts' At Cemetery

MANSFIELD, MA — While Mansfield police confirm they have been told of small personal items missing from two graves at St. Mary's Cemetery recently, they denied media reports the cemetery has been a the sight of a "string of thefts" in recent weeks. Mansfield police said they do understand the sentimental value of even small items missing, however, and take the thefts seriously.

"Thankfully this type of activity isn't common here in Mansfield but we will certainly work hard to address this latest incident," Mansfield police posted on their Facebook page Monday afternoon.

Mansfield police said the cemeteries are part of their regular patrol and that they will have a heavier presents there during the holiday season when people are more likely to leave personal items at graves. Police said they received one call of a personal item missing from someone who did not wish to file a report, and are aware of a social media post stating that a Christmas tree was missing from a grave stone.

"Some news outlets are now reporting that the Mansfield Police Department is investigating 'A String of Thefts At Local Cemeteries,' which is most assuredly not the case," Mansfield police said.