A member of the Ontario Provincial Police in Norfolk County is being formally recognized for his role in helping bring a disturbing string of cemetery thefts to an end.
PC Murray has received a Regional Commander’s Letter for Exemplary Performance of Duty for his proactive work during an investigation that deeply impacted families across the community. The recognition highlights his vigilance, dedication and commitment to serving residents during a time when emotions were running high.
The award stems from proactive patrol efforts carried out in response to multiple thefts involving bronze monuments and even an urn from local cemeteries. While on patrol in a cemetery, PC Murray observed a suspicious vehicle, later located it nearby and identified stolen cemetery property inside. That discovery led to the identification and arrest of a suspect the same day.
Police say the arrest marked a turning point in an investigation that had shaken grieving families throughout Norfolk County. The thefts prompted increased patrols and a coordinated investigative effort by members of the Norfolk County OPP.
In August 2025, officers arrested 39-year-old Douglas Stevens of Oxford County in connection with a theft reported at Waterford Greenwood Cemetery. During the arrest, stolen property was recovered, and the following day members of the OPP Crime Unit executed a search warrant on the accused’s vehicle.
Investigators say officers discovered numerous stolen items inside, including an urn containing human remains. Police also revealed that some property stolen from gravesites had been sold for scrap.
As a result, Stevens faced multiple charges, including indignity to a dead body, trafficking in stolen goods over $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. Police noted at the time that further charges had not been ruled out.
Days later, the OPP revealed that dozens of items had been recovered. Tables of seized property were displayed in a video shared by Constable Andrew Gamble on OPP West Region social media pages, as officers worked to reunite items with affected families.
While the arrests and recovery efforts occurred months ago, the recent recognition of PC Murray shines a spotlight on the proactive policing and teamwork that brought the case to a successful conclusion. Police say the award underscores the importance of vigilance and community-focused policing in protecting places that hold deep personal meaning for residents.