Grave robbers struck at 8 cemeteries in southern Ontario

A couple face several charges, including committing an indignity to a dead body, following a crime spree that targeted cemeteries and mausoleums across southern Ontario.

Halton Regional Police say eight burial sites were robbed during the day in Oakville, Burlington, Toronto, Ancaster, and those in communities near Hamilton and Niagara Falls.

“Thieves tricked property managers by posing as grieving family members wishing to tour the premises,” said police. “They allegedly used tools to unlock and open niches without causing visible damage, making detection difficult.”

The crimes took place during the past few months and involved more than 300 thefts involving jewelry, decorative cremation urns, keepsakes, and other valuables, often left in memory of loved ones.

Nearly 600 stolen items were seized by our officers.

Two people have been charged.

“I was outraged. You stole from the dead. What kind of person does that?” Deputy Chief Roger Wilkie shared a quote from a victim whose family heirlooms were stolen. “These crimes have caused intense emotional pain and heartbreak for the families who have experienced feelings of violation, anger, and a resurgence of grief.”

Earlier this month, investigators were led to a hotel in Niagara Falls where two people were arrested. A search warrant was executed at the motel and on a vehicle, resulting in the recovery of thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry and other stolen property.

Charged with several offences, including indignity to a dead body, theft under $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime and possession of break-in tools, are 45-year-old John Ruch and 31-year-old Jordan Noble, both of no fixed address.

Police said they are continuing their investigation and believe more charges will be filed.

Officers are also working to identify the stolen items so that they can be returned to the families involved.

The locations where the thefts took place.