OAK HILL, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Gethsemane Memorial Gardens in Oak Hill is asking the public to respect the historic cemetery after security cameras captured inappropriate activity near the section where Captain W.D. Thurmond, the founder of the town of Thurmond, and members of his family are buried.
In a statement posted on social media, cemetery officials said security cameras, which are installed throughout the property for safety, have recorded individuals engaging in inappropriate behavior in and around the back of the cemetery near the Captain Thurmond section.
Officials said the actions are disrespectful to the cemetery and those buried there.
The cemetery later issued an update clarifying the scope of the incidents.
According to Gethsemane Memorial Gardens, cameras have recorded individuals “having relations” on two occasions during the daytime and late afternoon or early evening. Officials said they spoke with the second couple involved.
“The female was mortified. The male was very apologetic and said it wouldn’t happen again,” the cemetery said.
The cemetery also said incidents involving individuals urinating on the property have occurred “a handful of times, at best.”
Officials emphasized that neither issue is a chronic problem.
“The point of the last post is to be transparent and inform everyone that there are cameras, and we try to maintain the sanctity of the cemetery 24/7. If you see anything suspicious, please let us know,” the cemetery said.
Gethsemane Memorial Gardens said anyone who observes suspicious activity should contact the cemetery immediately. When the office is closed, officials said the quickest way to report concerns is by sending a direct message to the cemetery’s Facebook page or emailing denise.gethsemane@gmail.com.
