Detectives Arrest Two Suspects in Cemetery Vase Theft; Over 100 Vases Recovered: Detectives assigned to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division have arrested two suspects in connection with a series of thefts involving more than 100 bronze memorial vases taken from Trinity Memorial Gardens, located on Mattawoman Beantown Road in Waldorf. These thefts occurred during two time periods: between June 8 and June 21 and between July 4 and July 6.
On July 8, detectives observed a van parked on an adjacent property near the cemetery during the late-night hours. They canvassed the area and found garbage cans filled with bronze vases nearby. Evidence recovered at the scene enabled investigators to identify two suspects affiliated with the van and the thefts of the cemetery vases. One suspect, Trey Franklin Mason, 25, of Waldorf, was located at a motel in Waldorf and arrested on July 8. Further investigation led to the arrest of the second suspect, David Anthony Downing, 34, of Waldorf on July 16.
Through additional investigative work, detectives determined that up 100 vases stolen during the first time period had been transported to a scrap metal recycling facility in another jurisdiction. Detectives responded to the facility and successfully recovered the vases, which had not yet been processed or melted down. The total value of the recovered vases is estimated to be over $100,000.
Under Maryland criminal law, stealing or attempting to sell cemetery bronze items constitutes criminal theft and may result in fines and imprisonment. Additionally, Maryland law strictly prohibits scrap metal dealers from purchasing or accepting cemetery bronze items, specifically including memorial vases, markers, and plaques. The investigation into the scrap dealer remains an active investigation with multiple law enforcement agencies.
Mason and Downing were charged with theft scheme, destruction of property, fraud, and other related charges. They are currently being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center. Anyone with further 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. Tips may also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or through the P3Intel mobile app. Crime Solvers tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
