Six Veteran Memorial Plaques Stolen from Verona Cemetery Amid Growing Investigation
VERONA, NY — New York State Police are urgently investigating the theft of six bronze veteran memorial plaques forcibly removed from headstones at Verona Cemetery, 5655 East Main Street. Authorities are appealing to the public to help locate these stolen plaques honoring military service, many dedicated to those who served during wartime.
The initial discovery revealed that two plaques were forcibly taken, with a subsequent search uncovering an additional four missing, pushing the total to six stolen plaques. This desecration of the cemetery graves is now under active criminal investigation by State Police.
Police and Cemetery Leaders Call for Public Assistance
Tim Dodge, Supervisor of the Verona Cemetery Association, confirmed the thefts and revealed efforts to partner with the New York State Division of Cemeteries, which has yet to respond. Dodge emphasized the deep impact on families and the community, stressing the importance of these memorials in honoring veterans’ sacrifices.
State Police officials reiterated their commitment to holding those responsible accountable. In a public statement, police said they “recognize the importance of these memorials to families and the community and are committed to holding those responsible.”
A Worrying Trend: Bronze Plaque Thefts Surge in Area
This incident marks the second recent case of bronze plaque theft in the region. Late last week, a bronze plaque marking the historic significance of the Lower Landing in Rome, NY, was also stolen, heightening fears of a broader wave of cemetery desecrations and metal thefts targeting public monuments.
New York law treats first-degree cemetery desecration as a Class E felony, reflecting the serious legal consequences for this crime. The theft of veteran plaques disrespects not only the deceased but devastates surviving family members and the community.
Public Urged to Report Suspicious Activity and Sales
The State Police are urging residents to immediately report any sightings of bronze veteran plaques being sold online, in scrapyards, or through other venues. Anyone with information about the theft, or suspicious behavior around Verona Cemetery, is asked to contact the Oneida State Police Station at 315-366-6000 without delay.
Local leaders and law enforcement emphasize the urgency of stopping these offenses that strike at the heart of community respect and remembrance.
Why This Matters NOW for Communities Nationwide
Beyond Verona, this case signals a growing threat to veteran memorials and historic monuments across the United States. Similar thefts risk erasing collective memory and dishonoring military service as criminals seek to profit from scrap metal markets. North Carolina and other states face potential risks as these crimes proliferate.
Communities are advised to increase vigilance, protect veteran sites, and support efforts to recover stolen items.
What Happens Next
Investigations continue, with state police working to trace stolen plaques and identify suspects. The Verona Cemetery Association and law enforcement hope for swift recovery and prosecution.
This developing story underscores the need for community cooperation and prompt law enforcement action. Residents near Verona and across the Northeast—and potentially nationwide—should stay alert to this serious violation of sacred spaces and veterans’ legacies.
