Toll-free number provided for Sikeston cemeteries complaints

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Sikeston Department of Public Safety director Drew Juden said numerous complaints have been received by the city of Sikeston and the Sikeston City Council concerning the care and appearance of the Memorial Park and Garden of Memories cemeteries. Both are owned by Michael Graham Jr. and Associates of Houston.

The complaints have centered on failure to provide endowed care, failure to maintain the cemetery and the appearance of the cemetery. Some complaints are about the failure to deliver headstones and markers paid for by family members.

The city will proceed with some maintenance and upkeep on the cemeteries until the issue is resolved in the court system. The department also is working with the Consumer Fraud Division of the attorney general's office to resolve the complaints.

Anyone who has a complaint about the cemeteries should contact the Consumer Fraud Division at (800) 392-8222.

Juden said victims should contact the division to receive a complaint form so when the case is resolved they can receive the items that were promised or some other compensation.

The Department of Public Safety is looking into the possibility of criminal charges in the case. Anyone with information is requested to call (573) 471-6200. All communications will be kept confidential.