CHARLES COUNTY, Md. (7News) — Two Waldorf, Maryland, men have been arrested in connection with the theft of more than 100 bronze memorial vases from a Charles County cemetery.
According to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, the thefts occurred at Trinity Memorial Gardens on Mattawoman Beantown Road between June 8 and June 21 and again between July 4 and July 6. Authorities said the stolen items were valued at more than $100,000.
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25-year-old Trey Franklin Mason and 34-year-old David Anthony Downing were arrested in connection with the theft of more than 100 bronze memorial vases from a Charles County cemetery. (Charles County Sheriff’s Office)
On July 8, officials observed a van parked on an adjacent property near the cemetery late at night. While canvassing the area, detectives discovered garbage cans filled with bronze memorial vases.
“Evidence recovered at the scene” led detectives to identify two men connected to the thefts, the sheriff’s office said.
Officials said 25-year-old Trey Franklin Mason was arrested at a Waldorf motel on July 8. A second man, 34-year-old David Anthony Downing, was arrested July 16.
Detectives later determined that about 100 vases stolen during the first series of thefts had been taken to a scrap metal recycling facility in another jurisdiction. Deputies recovered the vases before they were processed or melted down.
Mason and Downing are being charged with theft scheme, destruction of property, fraud and other related offenses. They are being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center.
The sheriff’s office said the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with more information is asked to contact Detective K. Dunn at 301-609-6571. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward may call Charles County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.
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