Couple accused of stealing $130K of grave markers from Atlanta cemetery
ATLANTA — An Atlanta couple is accused of stealing memorial items from graves at a local cemetery, according to police.
Investigators said officers responded to Crest Lawn Memorial Park, where body camera video captured holes in the ground where grave markers and decorations had been removed.
Authorities said the thefts occurred between Aug. 4 and Aug. 12 of last year. During that time, several bronze vases, bronze plaques and granite slabs were reported stolen. The total value of the missing items was estimated at $130,000.
Police later identified the suspects as 43-year-old Emanuel Pena and 39-year-old Allison Pena.
While executing a search warrant, investigators said they recovered 10 large grave markers, five vases and a small plaque. Body camera footage showed officers discovering grave markers inside a vehicle bearing names including Crawford, Beavers, Payne, Perry and Gorton.
Officers also reported finding grinding wheels allegedly used to alter the metal items to prevent them from being identified.
Both suspects were charged with theft by taking and booked into the Fulton County Jail. Jail records show they have since been released.
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