Child Sex Crimes in Michigan, Deadly Shootings Near Churches, and International Abductions
It's been a brutal and violent week for Christians worldwide
This is the biggest week I’ve had for church crime with 22 stories. I have kept out a lot of other crime to stick to the big stuff. Last week we had a reprieve from violence at churches, but this week more than made up for it. Please follow me on social media, where I put out even more information everyday.
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER, FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, and Rumble.
In this issue…
Gun Incident at McCauley Baptist Church in San Antonio
Deadly Shooting Near Decatur Church
Shooting Incident Near Church of the Ascension in Virginia Beach
Rising Christian Persecution as Easter Nears
Alaska House Passes Bill Making Church Vandalism a Felony
Vandalism at Congregational Church of the Peninsula Amid Calls for Ceasefire
Tragic Details Emerge in San Jose Exorcism Death of 3-Year-Old
Church Volunteer Robbed at Gunpoint in San Antonio
Gainesville Church Burglary Leads to Arrest
Spokane Valley Church Burglary: $5K in Equipment Stolen
Murder Suspect Seeks Refuge at Church after Murder
Church Vandalism Investigation Leads to Deputy Assault in Flagler County
Historic Black Church in Houston Faces Repeated Vandalism, Caretaker Assaulted
Henderson LDS Church Repeatedly Damaged by Fireworks
Embezzlement Charges Against Usher at Charlotte's Largest Catholic Parish
Pennsylvania Man Faces Charges for Biting Child During Church Service
Pastor to Preach Again on Easter After Being Shot in Memphis
Third Midland Church Leader Investigated for Child Sex Crimes
International Church Crime
Baptist Pastor Fatally Shot in Myanmar's Kachin State
Surge in Violence Against Christians in India Reported
Repeated Raid and Arrests at Anhui Province House Church
Gunmen Abduct Worshippers in Ogun Celestial Church
Gun Incident at McCauley Baptist Church in San Antonio
A disturbing incident occurred at the McCauley Baptist Church in San Antonio, Texas, when a woman, inspecting the church with her family on a Friday night, encountered an unidentified man pointing a gun at her. The incident, reported around 9:30 p.m. near the 700 block of McCauley Boulevard, prompted a police response after the pastor reported the church's alarm had been triggered. The woman, upon investigating a closet within the church premises, found the armed man, leading to her and her family's immediate flight from the scene and subsequent contact with law enforcement. The suspect managed to flee before police arrival. San Antonio Police Department urges anyone with information on the suspect to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 210-224-7867, as the search for the individual continues.
The pastor called the victim stating that the alarm for the church was going off. While inspecting the church, she came across a man with a gun.
If you have an alarm, it needs to be monitored so the police car respond. If the police had responded, the outcome would have been way different.
If you have an alarm at the church and you are the response, not the police, be armed and have another armed person with you. The two of you, together, should walk the outside of the church looking for signs of entry. If you see signs of entry, call 911 and let them handle it. If you decide to handle it yourself, enter the church with guns drawn. Start clearing the church methodically. if you run across anyone, you are armed and can deal with whatever may come.
Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you clear an alarm without your gun out and being mentally prepared for a confrontation.
I’ve literally cleared thousands of alarms like this. In only a handful each year did I ever encounter anyone inside. When I did, I imposed my will upon the bad person and ordered them to surrender. Some ran, some gave up. None were ready to shoot it out because I imposed my will upon them instead of the other way around.
Deadly Shooting Near Decatur Church
In the early hours of a Sunday morning, a fatal shooting occurred near the Spirit of Glory Worship Center located on South Rainbow Drive in Decatur, according to the DeKalb County Police. The incident, which took place just before 6 a.m., has raised concerns among local churchgoers regarding their safety in the vicinity of the church. One individual expressed shock and a desire for a secure environment, especially when going to and from vehicles. In response to the incident, the church administration has announced plans to enhance security measures in the area. As of the latest updates, authorities have not released information regarding potential suspects involved in the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected as they become available.
Shooting Incident Near Church of the Ascension in Virginia Beach
A critical shooting incident occurred on Princess Anne Road near the Church of the Ascension in Virginia Beach, leaving one person in critical condition with serious injuries. The event unfolded just before 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, and as of the latest updates, police have not identified any suspects related to the incident. Virginia Beach Police described the situation as an isolated incident, with the victim sustaining two gunshot wounds. A second individual was reported to have been assaulted hours before the shooting. The church parking lot in Kempsville was transformed into a crime scene, with a blue sedan parked at the Church of the Ascension being a focal point of police investigation. Local residents reported not hearing gunshots, possibly due to strong winds that evening, and expressed shock over the violence occurring so close to their homes. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking more information and urging anyone with insights to come forward.
Watch the full report on YouTube
Two shootings in a row in church parking lots or just outside church property. People in trouble, fearing for their lives and seeking a place to hide, will always go to a church if it is nearby. People see, rightfully, that a church is a sanctuary. We should know that and prepare for that.
Alaska House Passes Bill Making Church Vandalism a Felony
The Alaska House of Representatives has passed a bill with bipartisan support that aims to escalate vandalism against churches and religious properties to a felony offense. House Bill 238, introduced by Democrat Rep. Andy Josephson of Anchorage, comes in response to a significant uptick in attacks on religious sites, particularly following the events surrounding George Floyd's death in 2020 and the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022. The legislation is grounded in the principle that vandalism against religious properties not only damages physical structures but deeply affects entire congregations. This move has sparked a heated debate over the potential for creating a privileged class of victims and the implications for religious freedom and equality under the law. The bill, which now moves to the Senate for consideration, has seen opposition from both Republican and Democrat members, raising concerns about its broad application and potential misuse against certain groups, including Christians.
Why is this not a felony already?
Vandalism at Congregational Church of the Peninsula Amid Calls for Ceasefire
The Congregational Church of the Peninsula, located in Belmont, California, experienced vandalism for the second time in less than a year. This recent act targeted a banner displayed by the church advocating for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, which was defaced with brown paint overnight on March 19, 2024. Subsequently, photos of Israeli children held by Hamas were attached to the vandalized banner. This incident reflects heightened tensions in the Bay Area and across the country following the deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas that began on October 7, leading to significant casualties on both sides and widespread calls for a ceasefire, including from local city councils and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. The church, led by Reverend Jim Mitulski, has previously been targeted, with a pride banner being damaged last summer. Both incidents have been reported to the Belmont Police Department, which is increasing patrols in the area. The vandalism of the ceasefire banner is not currently being investigated as a hate crime, in contrast to the earlier incident with the Pride banner. Reverend Mitulski expressed disappointment but remained committed to peace and dialogue, echoing the church's dedication to the teachings of Jesus Christ on peacemaking.
I’ll just leave it at these two verses
Nehemiah 4:14 "After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people, 'Don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives, and your homes.'"
Leviticus 18:22 "Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable."
Tragic Details Emerge in San Jose Exorcism Death of 3-Year-Old
In San Jose, a tragic case unfolded involving the exorcism death of a 3-year-old girl, Arely Naomi Proctor, who died from asphyxiation after being subjected to physical abuse during a ritual performed by her relatives at the Iglesia Evangelica Apostoles y Profetas church in September 2021. Santa Clara County’s chief medical examiner, Dr. Michelle Jorden, testified about the severe injuries Arely sustained, including brain swelling, bruising, and a torn aorta, indicative of smothering and mechanical asphyxiation. Claudia Hernandez, Rene Trigueros Hernandez, and Rene Hernandez Santos, the child's mother, grandfather, and uncle, face charges of felony child abuse resulting in death.
Church Volunteer Robbed at Gunpoint in San Antonio
In San Antonio, Texas, a church volunteer faced a harrowing incident while directing traffic. On March 24, at around 8:30 a.m., in the 100 block of S. Navidad Street, the volunteer, a 42-year-old man, was robbed at gunpoint. The assailant approached the victim, brandishing a handgun and demanding all his possessions. Fearing for his life, the victim complied, handing over his belongings. The suspect then fled the scene on foot, and as of the report, remains at large. San Antonio Police and Crime Stoppers are actively seeking information leading to the suspect's capture, with Crime Stoppers offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that results in an arrest. The community is urged to come forward with any knowledge regarding this crime to aid in the suspect's apprehension.
Keeping in touch with your surroundings will prevent issues like this. You can see by the way the suspect dresses that he might be a danger to you (the mask is the first clue). If you see the danger coming, leave. Humans are the only animal on the planet that doesn’t flee when it senses danger. If you are working security and see the robbery going down, it is best to call it in. Interfering will more than likely cause a gunfight. You can challenge him after the robbery, but I would advise against it. Report what you are seeing and follow with cover between you and the suspect.
Gainesville Church Burglary Leads to Arrest
In Gainesville, Florida, Travis J. Brensinger, a 46-year-old man with a notable criminal history, was arrested following a break-in at the Southwest United Methodist Church. The incident occurred on the evening of March 27, 2024, when a church member noticed Brensinger in the church's education building and promptly called 911. Despite law enforcement's efforts to coax him out, Brensinger did not respond until a K-9 unit discovered him hiding, leading to his arrest. The damages included a broken mirror, estimated at $100, and a flooded bathroom. Additionally, Brensinger was found in possession of quetiapine fumarate pills, prescribed to someone else, leading to charges of burglary, property damage, drug possession, and resisting an officer without violence. Despite claiming he had permission to stay in the building from an unknown "Dixie," church officials refuted this claim. Brensinger, who has been in the area for approximately three months and holds active warrants from Pennsylvania and Texas, is now held on $65,000 bail.
If someone is in your church and you don’t think they are supposed to be there, talk to them and get their story. If it doesn’t add up, ask them to leave and call the police.
Spokane Valley Church Burglary: $5K in Equipment Stolen
Detectives in Spokane Valley, Washington, are seeking assistance from the public to identify a suspect involved in a church burglary that resulted in the theft of approximately $5,000 worth of audio and music equipment. The incident occurred at Valley Chapel Church, with the burglary reported to have taken place sometime during the week of March 17. The Spokane Valley Police Department responded to the burglary report on the morning of March 23. Upon arrival, they discovered that black tape had been placed over some security cameras and one of the windows, though it was determined the suspect gained entry through an unsecured door. Photos of the suspect have been released by the Spokane County Sheriff's Office as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident or the identity of the suspect to contact Detective B. Humphrey at 509-477-3028, referencing case #10040123.
Ensure you have a burglar alarm and a fire alarm. A 4k video system that you can transfer files to someone and is recorded to the cloud is preferable.
Murder Suspect Seeks Refuge at Church after Murder
In Greeley, Colorado, a confrontation at the Coin Laundry near Greeley Mall resulted in a fatal stabbing incident on March 24. Greeley Police responded to a disturbance call and discovered a 36-year-old man outside the establishment with multiple stab wounds. Despite emergency lifesaving efforts, the victim succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Michael Vergara, was apprehended after driving to a church parking lot and alerting police to his location. Found with a pocket knife used in the stabbing, Vergara claimed self-defense, stating he recognized the victim as someone who had previously attempted to rob his car under the direction of what he believed were corrupt Greeley Police officers. Vergara cited a deep "mistrust" of the police as the reason for his actions rather than seeking law enforcement help. He has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently held at the Weld County jail. This tragic event has reignited discussions on community safety and trust in law enforcement.
Each week a criminal or victim runs to a church for refuge. Your church should be preparing for just such an event. Use this case as an example. What if your team, or a church employee, saw this person sitting in their vehicle and decided to check on this person in the lot, only to discover he is bloody and panicked? Check our training below on how to deal with suspicious cars in your lot.
Church Vandalism Investigation Leads to Deputy Assault in Flagler County **Video has graphic language, mild violence**
In Flagler County, Florida, an investigation into a series of church vandalisms took an unexpected turn when deputies were assaulted by a man they found acting suspiciously outside a church. Initially observed pretending to be asleep, the situation escalated when the deputies attempted to engage him, leading to him becoming belligerent and initiating a physical confrontation. The man attempted to kick the officers and even tried to kick out a patrol car window during his arrest. He now faces charges of loitering and prowling in addition to resisting an officer with violence. Sheriff Rick Staly highlighted the incident as a stark example of the challenges and verbal abuse law enforcement officers face in the line of duty, praising his deputies for their calmness and ability to de-escalate the situation under pressure. This incident underscores the risks associated with law enforcement's efforts to maintain community safety and enforce the law.
Historic Black Church in Houston Faces Repeated Vandalism, Caretaker Assaulted
The Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church, a historic Black church located in Houston’s Third Ward, has suffered repeated attacks and vandalism, resulting in significant financial damage estimated at around $50,000. Pastor David Punch reported that the church, standing in the community since 1881, has experienced at least nine break-ins by the same individual, identified as 42-year-old Timothy David Anderson. Anderson, who has a lengthy criminal history dating back to 2005, has been accused of breaking stained glass windows and attacking a 70-year-old church caretaker in one of these incidents. Despite the church's efforts to offer help, Anderson continued his acts of vandalism, even breaking into the church's food pantry. Currently, Anderson is in jail facing two felony charges: Criminal Mischief and Injury to Elderly, with a bond set at $20,000. Pastor Punch emphasized the need for more comprehensive homeless services and mental health support in the community to address underlying issues contributing to such incidents.
Henderson LDS Church Repeatedly Damaged by Fireworks
In Henderson, Nevada, a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meeting house has been the target of repeated attacks involving fireworks, causing damage and resulting in injuries. On the evening of March 27, during a youth activity, an unidentified individual entered the church and ignited a "firework type device" on the floor, injuring four people with minor injuries. This incident marks the third time in the past 30 days that the church has suffered damages due to fireworks. The attack not only damaged the building's front entrance and gymnasium but also a religious painting. Stake President Steve Morris expressed concern over the severity of these actions, highlighting the involvement of federal agencies like the FBI in the investigation. City of Henderson Councilman Jim Seebock and the LDS church have both issued statements acknowledging the incident and the responsive efforts of local and federal law enforcement. The repeated vandalism has raised alarms within the community, especially ahead of the Easter weekend, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Embezzlement Charges Against Usher at Charlotte's Largest Catholic Parish
Oscar Emmanuel Ehighalua faces three embezzlement charges after allegedly stealing funds from St. Matthew Catholic Church, the largest Catholic congregation in Charlotte, North Carolina. According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, the incidents occurred over three consecutive Sundays, starting with $100 taken on March 3 and March 10, followed by a significant theft of $3500 on March 17. The church discovered the financial discrepancies after noticing a bank deposit bag was missing. Ehighalua, serving as an usher, reportedly diverted the offering collection money instead of securing it safely as per church protocol. While the investigation by CMPD continues, St. Matthew's representatives have refrained from commenting further but stress the ongoing efforts to serve and aid the community will persist despite these setbacks.
Pennsylvania Man Faces Charges for Biting Child During Church Service
Johnnie Harbold, a 29-year-old man from Altoona, Pennsylvania, has been charged with child endangerment, simple assault, and harassment after allegedly biting an 8-year-old girl in the face during a church service at Altoona Alliance Church. The incident, which occurred on February 18, reportedly happened after Harbold took the girl to another room because she was misbehaving. The child, who sustained teeth marks and visible bruising on her face, described the pain as feeling like “something was eating my face off.” She also recounted previous occasions where Harbold had put soap in her mouth, causing bleeding. Harbold, who is related to the child, admitted to biting her, stating he had “just lost control.” The nature of their familial relationship has not been detailed.
Pastor to Preach Again on Easter After Being Shot in Memphis
In a testament to resilience and faith, a pastor in Memphis, Tennessee, is preparing to lead his congregation once more on Easter Sunday, merely a month following a life-threatening incident where he was shot in the head outside his church. Despite not having fully recovered and facing upcoming reconstructive surgery on his jaw and plastic surgery, the pastor views this as a critical opportunity to fulfill his calling. The shooting occurred in late February when car thieves shot him moments after stealing a corvette right on the front steps of his church. There have been no arrests related to the shooting thus far.
Third Midland Church Leader Investigated for Child Sex Crimes
A third leader from Mark Barclay Ministries and Living Word International Church in Midland, Michigan, has been suspended and removed from their position amid allegations of sexual misconduct. This development follows a WNEM-TV5 investigation revealing two other church leaders facing similar accusations. In recent events, church elder and volunteer Brandon Saylor, 44, pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a child under 13, with six other charges dropped. Furthermore, Rev. James Randolph, 57, who is related to the ministry's head by marriage, was charged with several felonies related to criminal sexual conduct and is awaiting trial.
International Church Crime
Baptist Pastor Fatally Shot in Myanmar's Kachin State
In a tragic incident in Myanmar's Kachin state, a 47-year-old Baptist pastor associated with the Kachin Baptist Convention was killed by three unidentified gunmen at his computer shop in Mogaung township. The pastor, who suffered fatal wounds to the head and abdomen, was not only a religious figure but also actively participated in anti-military protests and initiatives against drug abuse in the community. His death adds to the ongoing turmoil in Kachin, which has been severely affected by violence following the 2021 military coup. The region has witnessed a significant number of deaths and displacements, with the local Christian population facing heightened risks amidst the conflict. The incident underscores the broader pattern of human rights abuses in Myanmar, particularly against Christian and other religious minorities, with the military's actions drawing international criticism for their brutality. The assassination of the pastor has sparked demands for justice from his family and the local community, amidst a backdrop of increasing violence and persecution against Christians in the region.
Surge in Violence Against Christians in India Reported
In the first 75 days of 2024, India has seen a significant increase in violence against Christians, with a watchdog group documenting 161 incidents. This figure, derived from complaints registered on the United Christian Forum's (UCF) toll-free helpline, likely underrepresents the actual number of crimes and acts of persecution against Christians in the country. A.C. Michael, a Catholic and the coordinator of UCF, expressed frustration over the lack of government response and action to curb the rising violence. The incidents categorized include detainment by police, social ostracization, physical violence, forced "reconversion," and the desecration of churches. This escalation of violence follows a trend that has seen a steady increase since the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in 2014. Christians, who make up only 2.3% of India's population, have been increasingly targeted, with the situation particularly dire in BJP-ruled states like Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh. The report highlights systemic issues, including state-sponsored harassment, and calls for urgent action to protect religious minorities in India.
Repeated Raid and Arrests at Anhui Province House Church
On March 10, 2024, local police conducted a raid on Fuyang Maizhong Reformed Church located in Anhui Province, China, marking the second such incident the congregation faced in less than two months. During the operation, 18 individuals, including one of the church elders, Elder Chang Shun, were arrested. Notably, this was Elder Chang Shun's third arrest in the past six months, highlighting the ongoing pressure and challenges faced by the church from local authorities. The congregation has been notably resistant to joining the state-controlled Three-Self Patriotic Movement (TSPM), maintaining its stance even in the face of increased scrutiny and harassment from the government. The detained church members are now facing sentences of up to two weeks in local jails. This incident underscores the persistent courage and faith of the Fuyang Maizhong Reformed Church community amidst the broader context of religious persecution in Communist China.
Gunmen Abduct Worshippers in Ogun Celestial Church
In a disturbing incident in Mowe, Ogun State, Nigeria, two worshippers were abducted by unidentified gunmen from a Celestial Church in the Obafemi/Owode local government area. The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the kidnapping, which took place on Thursday near Oriyarin village. The victims, identified as Oladapo Seyifunmi and Oluboboye Abiola, were taken by the assailants who then fled through a dense forest behind the church. The Commissioner of Police, Alamutu Abiodun, has been informed of the situation and has directed an immediate response to pursue the kidnappers. This act has raised concerns about security in places of worship and the broader challenge of kidnapping in the region.
Rising Christian Persecution as Easter Nears
As the Lenten season approaches Easter, the global issue of Christian persecution intensifies, with Nigeria highlighted as a significant area of concern. A report by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) reveals that approximately 340 million Christians, or one in every eight globally, live under some form of persecution, ranging from arbitrary arrest and violence to severe human rights abuses and even murder. Nigeria, with its roughly equal Christian and Muslim population, has seen a dramatic increase in violence against Christians since 2009, primarily attributed to the extremist group Boko Haram. The past year alone has witnessed the deaths of 20 Catholic missionaries, with Nigeria accounting for the highest number of fatalities. The violence extends to churches and seminaries, often targeted by criminal gangs and Islamic jihadists, resulting in numerous kidnappings and deaths of Catholic priests. The article criticizes the U.S. government for not designating Nigeria as a "country of particular concern" despite the escalation of persecution, a move that contradicts its foundational principle of religious freedom. The piece calls for increased awareness and action to address the widespread issue of religious persecution.
https://nypost.com/2024/03/31/us-news/protesters-calling-for-cease-fire-ambush-easter-vigil-at-st-patricks-cathedral-in-nyc/?utm_campaign=iphone_nyp&utm_source=pasteboard_app