Criminal Activity Reported at Other Cemeteries

Governor names cemetery oversight task force

The Cook County Sheriff's Department confirmed Thursday that they've gotten several complaints alleging criminal activity at Chicago-area cemeteries other than Burr Oak.

Most of the calls the department received were about upkeep and maintenance, but some of them alleged criminal activity, and the Sheriff's Department said it is investigating those.

The department said it wouldn't name the cemeteries in case the complaints are unfounded.

Also Thursday, Gov. Pat Quinn named a new cemetery oversight task force, which will examine how for-profit cemeteries are run and come up with recommendations on how they should be regulated.

"The Burr Oak Cemetery scandal is an outrage," Quinn said in a release.  "I believe in providing a proper and respectful burial. This task force will ensure that our loved ones are always treated with reverence and dignity."

The nine-person task force includes a former judge, lawyers, public health officials, religious leaders and community activists.

Contact Us