Bronze headstones stolen from Downey Cemetery

DOWNEY - Four bronze headstones belonging to U.S. veterans were stolen from Downey Cemetery early Wednesday morning, police said.The headstones, along with various bronze accent pieces, were stolen from various headstones today at about 7:30 a.m. Police suspect the headstones were stolen so they could be recycled for cash. Local recycling facilities were notified of the thefts and were asked to contact police if the items are turned in for recycling, police said in a press release. Two suspects were seen leaving the cemetery in a black "lifted" Chevy Silverado pickup truck with a black camper shell. The first suspect was described as a male white or Hispanic, 6 ft. 3 inches tall and weighing about 300 lbs. He was last seen wearing a white shirt and gray shorts. The second suspect was also described as a male white or Hispanic, 5 ft. 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 250 lbs. He was also last seen wearing a white shirt and gray shorts. The Downey Cemetery traces its roots back to 1868 and is the final resting site for more than 9,000 people, including veterans from the Civil War through the Gulf War. Anyone with information on the case is asked to call Det. Jerry Price at (562) 904-2359 or Det. Mark Galindo at (562) 904-2326. Tips can also be left anonymously by calling (800) 222-TIPS or texting the letters TIPLA, plus your tip, to CRIMES (274637). -Eric Pierce, city editor

********** Published: March 31, 2011 - Volume 9 - Issue 50