Stolen Body Parts Found in Colorado Cemetery Mausoleum
In a shocking and distressing discovery, officials in Colorado revealed that body parts were stolen from a cemetery’s mausoleum. Jacki Kelley, a spokesperson for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, described it as “disturbing, awful, and sad” and a felony.
The investigation began when sheriff’s deputies found that someone had broken into a private mausoleum at the Crown Hill Cemetery. The faceplate was smashed, the crypt was accessed, and the casket inside was partially pulled out.
Authorities say unknown suspects vandalized the mausoleum, pried open the casket, and removed “portions of the body.” The incident took place at the Wheat Ridge cemetery, just outside Denver.
The motive behind this disturbing crime remains unclear. Kelley expressed her deep concern, emphasizing the emotional impact on the families of those whose remains were disturbed.
The stolen body parts have not been disclosed, and the deceased’s name is being kept private. All the individuals laid to rest in the mausoleum passed away in the early 20th century. Authorities are making efforts to locate the family members of the deceased.
The suspect, or suspects, now face multiple felony charges, including abuse of a corpse, criminal mischief, and third-degree burglary and theft. It is essential for the public to assist the police by providing any tips or information they may have about this unsettling incident.
This event is a reminder of similar cases, such as the indictment of a former manager at the Harvard Medical School morgue, who was accused of stealing and selling human body parts. Cedric Lodge allegedly ran a scheme from 2018 until earlier this year, involving the theft and sale of donated body parts, like heads, brains, and bones.
The investigation into this shocking crime continues, and authorities are calling on the public to help provide any leads that may aid in solving this distressing case.