Rotherham graves: Three arrested in grave yard investigation near Laughton church
Police have made arrests in their investigation into an incident involving a grave near a South Yorkshire church.
South Yorkshire Police confirmed the arrests in connection with an investigation into an incident within the church yard at All Saints Church, Laughton-en-le-Morthen, near Rotherham.
Officers said three arrests have been made following a report of ‘a crime relating to one grave within the church yard’.
Two 25-year-old men, and a 53-year-old man, have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage and causing a public nuisance. All are in police custody at present.
Police were at the church yard carrying out investigations for eight days, with the yard closed during that time.
It is now re-open to the public
Police say the family of the person whose grave is at the centre of the investigation have been informed by specially-trained family liaison officers.
Detective Inspector Lucy Garside, who is the senior investigating officer on this case, said: "This would have been an extremely distressing and concerning time for those who have loved ones also in the church yard.
"I would like to thank everyone for their support and understanding around this sensitive matter, especially those who could not visit the church yard during this time.
"Our investigation is continuing into this incident, but I want to provide reassurance that we believe that this was a targeted incident and that there is no threat to other graves within the church yard.
"If you are concerned, or have some questions, please do get in contact with us, we are here to listen and help where we can."