WAYNE COUNTY — Two Goldsboro residents have been charged following an extensive investigation into the theft of bronze vases from gravesites at Wayne Memorial Park, according to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.
Between November 2025 and January 2026, approximately 200 bronze vases were reported stolen from graves throughout the cemetery, which is located on U.S. Highway 117 South in the Mar-Mac community. Deputies and detectives with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office conducted a thorough investigation that ultimately led to the identification of two suspects.
Lewis Cody Honeycutt, 35, of Old Smithfield Road, Goldsboro, was charged with 26 counts of disturbing a casket or grave marker, 26 counts of misdemeanor larceny, 26 counts of possession of stolen property, and two counts of obtaining property by false pretense. His total bond was set at $150,000 secured.
Crystal Lynn Yancey, 46, of Becton Circle, Goldsboro, was also charged with 26 counts of disturbing a casket or grave marker, 26 counts of misdemeanor larceny, 26 counts of possession of stolen property, and four counts of obtaining property by false pretense. Her total bond was also set at $150,000 secured.
Wayne County Sheriff Larry Pierce praised the efforts of the deputies and detectives involved in the case, citing their dedication and teamwork throughout the investigation.
“These cases were unconscionable and deeply hurtful for many families in our community,” Sheriff Pierce said.
The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office noted that the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges are expected. Officials are encouraging anyone who discovers a missing or recently stolen vase from a loved one’s gravesite to report it promptly to the sheriff’s office.
