Town Manager Hull Says No “Easy Answers” To Theft Problems At Wildwood Cemetery

WILMINGTON, MA —  There’s no denying it.  Wildwood Cemetery, like most public cemeteries, has a theft problem.

Several residents have recently expressed frustrations on the I’m Lucky – I Grew Up In Wilmington Facebook page after flowers and other mementos left at gravestones were stolen.  An effort has even begun to get affected residents to file police reports this upcoming Sunday, May 17.

At last night’s Board of Selectmen Meeting, Town Manager Jeff Hull took a few moments to address those who have sounded off on social media.

“I want it to be known that the town does care very much about the individuals who are buried [at Wildwood Cemetery] and their families,” said Hull.  “To monitor a space like that is just very difficult,” noting the access to the space is unrestricted.

More police patrols? “I don’t honestly believe it is appropriate police resources to have police patrols in the cemetery,” said Hull.

Video cameras?  “Given a space that size, I just don’t see that doing the trick,” said Hull.  “Those who are simply in the cemetery for a stroll or visiting the grave of a loved one might feel a measure of concern about ‘big brother’ watching them.”

Closing the cemetery at night?  “Private cemeteries have the ability to literally fence off and close down the cemeteries at certain times,” noted Hull.  “Historically, that hasn’t been the case with the Wildwood Cemetery.  I suspect people would be reluctant to put up 10-foot fencing around the whole perimeter of the cemetery to lock it down.”

“I don’t think there is any easy answer,” concluded Hull. “To the extent that people are interested in offering ideas, we’re willing to listen, but I don’t see any easy answer…. To some measure, our hands are tied.  There is no easy solution.”

Watch video of the meeting below. The Wildwood Cemetery discussion is held at the very end, beginning at 1:29:45.

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What do YOU think, Wilmington?  How can the town decrease theft at the Wildwood Cemetery in a reasonable, sustainable way?  Comment below or share your thoughts on our Facebook page.