Police say burglars also desecrated ashes

WEST PARIS – Someone who broke into Tina Loring’s home broke an urn containing her daughter’s remains and left ashes scattered throughout the home, leading police to believe it was more than a simple burglary.

“It wasn’t a robbery,” Loring said. “We feel it was a very personal attack.”

Police this week were still searching for a suspect who broke into the mobile home the day after Thanksgiving.

Investigators agree the break-in appeared to be a personal attack. Few items were stolen. A butcher knife was stuck in one wall and more than five dozen holes were punched into others. Furniture was slashed and a television demolished.

Loring’s daughter, Cassie Bennett, died eight years ago of a brain tumor. The desecration of the girl’s remains leads investigators to regard the crime as more than a break-in, police said.

“It’s sick,” said Oxford County Chief Deputy Jim Davis. “We all feel bad for her.”

Loring said a camera and a small amount of change were missing. Most items were either demolished or thrown around.

Oxford County Deputy Justin Brown is leading the investigation. Police said there are suspects, but more information is needed before an arrest can be made.