Vandals desecrate graves (From Witney Gazette)

Vandals desecrate graves

8:00am Friday 17th November 2006 in Witney

VANDALS have attacked ten graves leaving them covered in offensive graffiti at Tower Hill cemetery, Witney.

The offenders desecrated the headstones with gold spray paint at the Curbridge Road cemetery on Tuesday. Scenes of crime officers have since visited the graves and Witney Town Council informed the relatives affected by the vandalism before arranging for a thorough clean-up of the area.

Chrissie Curry, Mayor of Witney, said: "I have nothing but utter contempt for the people who did this. I am sure that I speak for everyone in Witney when I express my heartfelt sympathy to the families that have been affected by this mindless desecration."

Witney Inspector Darren Carver said: "We treat these incidents of criminal damage very seriously and I would ask parents to ensure that they know where their teenagers are outside of school hours and what they are getting up to.

"This type of anti-social behaviour is totally unacceptable and our team of officers are currently following up leads to track down the offenders.

"Our thoughts are with the families of those who have been affected. I am determined we will catch and prosecute those responsible for this spiteful crime. We look to the local community and youth to help us solve this incident."

• Anyone with information is asked to contact Insp Carver via the police enquiry centre on 0845 8 505 505. Alternatively, if you don't want to speak to police or give your name, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.