Police offer reward for stolen ashes

Costa Mesa’s police union Wednesday offered a $1,000 reward for the return of a deceased man’s ashes, which were stolen when burglars ransacked his widow’s home.

The house near Shiffer Park in Costa Mesa was broken into Jan. 22, and valuables that included an ornate box containing the cremated remains of the resident’s late husband were stolen.

Police said anyone who has the ashes can return them with no questions asked.

The victim said the burglars probably didn’t know what was inside the ebony inlaid box.

The Costa Mesa Police Officers’ Assn. said it will pay $1,000 to anyone who returns the ashes or can provide information leading to their recovery.

A crucifix necklace that contained some of the late husband’s ashes was also taken. He died in 2012.

Police asked that anyone with information call detectives at (714) 754-5198.

— Jeremiah Dobruck

Twitter: @jeremiahdobruck