An Acadiana family gathered for a wake this weekend to mourn the loss of a loved one, but little did they know that among them were some individuals hoping to capitalize on their grief. According to St. Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz, thieves posed as mourners Sunday at Melancon Funeral Home in Opelousas.

"Individuals entered the funeral home in an effort to distract members so that others could break into vehicles in the parking lot," Guidroz said.

Among the items stolen from cars in the parking lot were cell phones, credit cards and checkbooks. Off camera, the victims told KATC that the suspects were even more bold, sitting in the front row of the funeral parlor and stealing someone's purse.

Five individuals have so far been arrested, including several juveniles. Charges are pending.

Jim Hummel

Permalink | Play Video | Comments