LOS ANGELES, CA – A man has been sentenced to four years in state prison after pleading no contest to charges of breaking into vehicles at cemeteries across Los Angeles County while victims attended funerals or visited loved ones’ graves.
David Bassett entered his plea on February 11 to four counts of burglary of a vehicle, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors said the crimes occurred between February 3, 2023, and February 25, 2024, at multiple cemeteries, including two Forest Lawn locations and Oakwood Memorial Park and Cemetery in Chatsworth.
Authorities said Bassett targeted vehicles parked at the cemeteries, breaking in while owners were mourning. In some instances, he used stolen credit cards taken from the vehicles.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman condemned the crimes, calling them “despicable” and emphasizing that those who take advantage of people in vulnerable moments will be held accountable.
“Preying on people in their most vulnerable moments — while they’re mourning and paying their respects — is beyond reprehensible,” Hochman said in a statement. “Let this be a warning: If you exploit the grief of others for personal gain, you will be caught, and you will be prosecuted.”
Bassett’s restitution hearing is scheduled for March 28, where the court will determine financial compensation for the victims.
