700 Bronze Cemetery Vases Stolen, Sold For Scrap In Manchester

MANCHESTER, NJ — Nearly 700 bronze vases have been stolen from a Manchester cemetery and authorities are seeking the public's help in locating a man they say sold more than 450 of them to a scrap yard.

John H. White, 46, is being sought in connection with the thefts of about 500 of the bronze grave marker vases from Whiting Memorial Park, Manchester Police Capt. Todd Malland said. White, who has addresses in Manchester, Jackson, and Lakewood, was charged with theft, desecration of venerated objects, and criminal mischief after a nearly monthlong investigation, Malland said.

On Feb. 14, staff members the cemetery on Route 530 reported nearly 700 bronze grave marker vases were missing. The vases are valued at $175,000, Malland said. About 450 vases were recovered as a result of the investigation, he said.

Patrolman Thomas Dill took the report, and Detective Craig Beaulieu began investigating and discovered White had sold nearly 3,000 pounds of bronze (equalling about 494 vases) to two local scrap yards, according to electronic reporting the scrap metal dealers are required to keep.

Malland said authorities believe the thefts began Jan. 24.

White has not yet been found, and the investigation is ongoing, Malland said. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of John H. White is asked to contact Beaulieu at 732-657-2009, ext. 4205. Additionally, anonymous information can be submitted through the “Tipline” link on our department website at www.ManchesterPoliceNJ.com.

Photo provided by Manchester Township Police