Hamilton Police have arrested a 30-year-old Waterdown man for vandalizing tombstones in Waterdown Cemetery.

On May 6, 2021, shortly after 2:30 a.m., Hamilton Police were conducting surveillance in Waterdown Cemetery, when police observed a male walking into the cemetery and proceeding to push over a tombstone. Police intervened as the male was in the process of pushing over another gravestone.

Police arrested the male and took the accused into custody.

The suspect’s bail has been opposed.

This arrest concludes a one and half month investigation into vandalism and mischiefs that have been occurring overnight in a Waterdown Cemetery since March 14, 2021. At this point, police have located over 100 gravestones that have been spray painted, knocked over or broken.

The total damages to the tombstones is still being compiled but it is believes to be in the thousands.

Hamilton Police Service wants to thank Waterdown residents and the City of Hamilton for providing information to assist with this investigation. This case shows how successful we can all be when we work together.

We encourage the public to look out for one another and to report all incidences of suspicious activity and crimes so they can be investigated and tracked. Remember, “If you see something, say something”.

Hamilton Police Service values this important information as we look into these crimes and deploy resources accordingly to better serve our community. It is important to recognize that criminals find it difficult to operate in neighbourhoods where citizens take an active role in preventing crime.

Anyone who may have information regarding these incidences can call Detective Tim Knapp at 905-546-2389 or Detective Sergeant Marco DelConte at 905-546-3851. To provide information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com