Rotherham churchyard incident: Police issue update on investigation into 'grave tampering' in Laughton
Police have issued an update on their investigation into ‘grave tampering’ in a South Yorkshire village churchyard.
A crime scene remains in place at the churchyard in Laughton-en-le-Morthen, near All Saints Church, with a number of police cars and a tent.
Officers now say their investigation team are likely to remain in place for some time, and say they understand the upset that the incident has caused..
South Yorkshire Police said in a statement this evening: “A police presence remains at the church yard connected to All Saints, Laughton-en-le-Morthen, while our investigation into a crime relating to one grave continues.
We understand the upset and concern this is causing the family and the wider community but, whilst our enquiries are ongoing, we believe that this was a targeted incident and that there is no threat to other graves.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the public for their continued support and understanding.
“We are expecting the scene to remain in place for some time, while we follow the correct processes and procedures to ensure we can follow all lines of enquiry in relation to this.”
They added officers would remain in the local area in the coming days, and are encouraging people to speak to them if they have any questions or concerns.
Anyone with information should contact South Yorkshire Police via southyorks.police.uk or 101 quoting incident 398 of 1 February 2026. Anyone who wishes to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers – crimestoppers-uk.org