Austintown Police ask for public help, urge caution in cemetery larceny

Staff report

Austintown

Police here are urging the public to be cautious when leaving their cars unattended during cemetery visits.

On Sunday, an individual described as an older, white man in a red SUV broke the passenger-side window of a woman’s car and stole her purse while she was visiting a grave at Resurrection Cemetery on North Raccoon Road.

The theft occurred between 9 and 10 a.m., according to a police record.

Before fleeing the scene, the thief discarded the purse but removed the money.

Police are urging anyone with information regarding the suspected thief to reach out.

They also are reminding the public to store their valuables out of sight if they’re going to leave them in a vehicle, or – as Austintown Detective Sergeant Jeff Toth suggested – lock them in the trunk of their vehicle.

“A lot of people visit their loved ones’ graves this time of year, and it’s important to take the right precautions to protect yourself if you’re going to leave your vehicle,” Toth said.