California Closes Woodlawn Cemetery

March 30, 2000

State officials in California ordered the Woodlawn Cemetery in Compton closed after they found human bone fragments and pieces of caskets scattered about the grounds.

Inspectors said the 120-year-old cemetery had moved bodies around to make room for new arrivals and had not properly documented burials and reinterments.

The cemetery will remain closed to new burials and visitors while inspectors identify body parts and clean up the site.

The problems came to light in Februry when state inspectors discovered bone fragments during a routine inspection, according to Department of Consumer Affairs Chief G.V. Ayers. He said criminal charges might be filed against the cemetery owners.

"The issue here is the sanctity of graves," Ayers told The Los Angeles Times.

Families with questions about loved ones buried at Woodlawn should call the California Department of Consumer Affairs, 800 952-5210.

Back to the top  |News } Funerals