Key Takeaways
- A trio of suspects is wanted for stealing heirlooms from cemetery niches across nine states.
- The alleged thieves are Drake Lee Milam, Porsche Bancroft, and Angela Garrett.
- Investigators have identified at least 20 Florida cases and numerous incidents in other states.
- Families are urged to verify that memorial items remain untouched.
- A cash reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for tips leading to arrests.
Overview
On August 13, 2026, Florida law‑enforcement officials announced a multi‑state search for three individuals accused of looting cherished family heirlooms from cemetery niches and mausoleums. The suspects allegedly entered at least nine states on a cross‑country “tour,” targeting burial sites in the eastern half of the United States and stealing jewelry, photographs, and other sentimental objects placed alongside cremated remains. The case has prompted a coordinated effort among multiple sheriff’s offices and the Central Florida Crimeline.
Suspect Details
The suspects have been identified as Drake Lee Milam, a 33‑year‑old resident of Indianapolis, Indiana; his girlfriend, Porsche Bancroft, 32; and Bancroft’s mother, Angela Garrett, 52. All three are wanted on outstanding Florida warrants and could be extradited if apprehended. Authorities have released their names and ages in a video statement, emphasizing that they may be traveling anywhere from Florida’s Orlando and Tampa regions to states as far north as New York and as far west as Texas.
Geographic Reach
According to Corporal Cole Brazee of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, investigators believe the trio has struck at least nine states, including Oklahoma, Minnesota, Texas, Georgia, Iowa, North Carolina, and New York. In Florida alone, about twenty separate thefts have been documented, spanning from the Orlando‑Winter Park corridor to the Tampa metropolitan area. Law officials suspect that many additional victims have yet to discover that their memorial items were taken.
Method and Motive
The suspects reportedly focused on cemetery crypts and mausoleum niches that house urns containing cremated remains. They allegedly pried open these compartments, removed personal artifacts—such as wedding bands, religious symbols, and family heirloom jewelry—and carried them away. Investigators note that these items often hold deep emotional significance for grieving families, making the thefts particularly egregious.
Impact on Families
Many families may remain unaware that their loved ones’ memorial possessions have been stolen. Authorities stress that the loss of these irreplaceable items can cause profound emotional distress, especially when the objects were placed with remains as a final tribute. Officials encourage relatives to visit burial sites, inspect niches, and report any missing items promptly to prevent further anguish.
Law Enforcement Appeal
Sheriff’s officials are urging anyone who discovers missing heirlooms or recognizes the suspects to contact local law‑enforcement agencies or the Central Florida Crimeline. Officials have emphasized the importance of public vigilance, stating that witnesses’ tips can be crucial in locating the fugitives and preventing additional thefts across state lines.
Reward Offer
The Central Florida Crimeline is offering a monetary incentive of up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest. Officials have asked the public to dial 800‑423‑TIPS (8477) with any relevant details, underscoring that even minor observations may prove decisive in cracking the case.
Related National Case
The Florida investigation follows a high‑profile grave‑robbery case in Pennsylvania, where authorities apprehended Jonathan Gerlach, 34, for allegedly stealing over one hundred sets of human remains from Mount Moriah Cemetery near Philadelphia. Prosecutors described the discovery of human bones and skulls in the suspect’s home and storage unit as “horrific,” highlighting a disturbing trend of desecration of burial sites nationwide.
Broader Implications
The string of thefts underscores a growing pattern of criminal activity targeting burial grounds and funeral‑home facilities. Law‑enforcement agencies across the country are increasingly concerned about organized attempts to loot sentimental artifacts, prompting calls for heightened security at cemeteries and greater public awareness among families who maintain memorial sites.
Call to Action
Authorities urge community members to remain vigilant, inspect the resting places of their departed loved ones, and report any irregularities immediately. By cooperating with investigators and providing timely information to the Central Florida Crimeline, citizens can help bring the suspects to justice and safeguard the sanctity of America’s burial sites.