Officer Shot, Suspect Killed in Standoff at Long Beach Church
Welcome to this week's Christian Warrior Training Crime Bulletin, where I analyze crimes targeting churches across the United States and select stories from around the world. As we approach Thanksgiving, I encourage you to reflect on the blessings we often take for granted. While gathering with family and friends, give thanks to the Lord for the freedoms we enjoy in this nation—freedoms safeguarded by the Constitution and the brave men and women in uniform who protect our right to worship our Lord and Savior.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Crimes Against Persons
Officer Shot, Suspect Killed in Standoff at Long Beach Church
Pella Church Offers Refuge During Middle School Knife Attack
Toms River Man Arrested After Dropping Gun in Church
Suspect Dies by Suicide After Police Pursuit Ends at Spencer Church
Man Fatally Shot Near Boynton Beach Church
Suspect Arrested After Stabbing Victim in Ogden Church Parking Lot
Sex Crimes
Former Shawnee Pastor Arrested Amid Allegations of Abuse at Church
Arson
(No current updates)
Property Crimes
Two Arrested for Vehicle Break-Ins at High Point Church
Scammers Steal Thousands from Jackson Church Through Mail Theft
Topeka Church Vandalized, Sustaining Thousands in Damages
Provo Police Seek Suspects in Vandalism of Latter-day Saint Meetinghouse
International Stories
Priest Attacked While Intervening in Theft at London Church
Finnish Politician Faces Ongoing Trial for Sharing Bible Verse
24 Christians Killed, 9 Abducted in Nigeria Amid Ongoing Violence
TERRORISM UPDATE
Senate Criticizes FBI and DHS for Refusing to Testify Publicly on Security Risks
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) faced criticism from the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee after declining to provide public testimony at a scheduled hearing on national security threats. This marks the first such refusal in over 15 years. The agencies opted for a classified session, citing the need for a deeper discussion on threats such as weapons of mass destruction and cyberattacks. Committee Chairman Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, condemned the move as a "shocking departure" from transparency, asserting it deprives the public of critical information. The decision also coincides with political tensions as President-elect Donald Trump selects new leadership for these agencies. DHS and FBI officials defended their actions, emphasizing their history of sharing public updates and pointing to the release of the Homeland Threat Assessment. The controversy underscores growing concerns over the balance between transparency and security.
We are at SEVERE for a reason. With our leaders refusing to testify, that should speak volumes. There is something brewing, as FBI Director Wray has said several times and we have documented here. FBI Director Wray has said multiple times that this is the biggest threat matrix he has seen since before 9/11. With him refusing to testify, you should look at that as warning indicator.
CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS
Officer Shot, Suspect Killed in Standoff at Long Beach Church
A standoff outside a North Long Beach church on November 19, 2024, ended with the death of a gunman and the injury of a Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) officer. Police responded to reports of an armed man near Atlantic Avenue and 52nd Street around 3:15 p.m. Negotiations involving mental health officers and SWAT personnel lasted over two hours before gunfire erupted. The suspect, who was reportedly uncooperative and "nonresponsive," was shot and killed, while a senior officer was struck in the arm but is expected to recover fully. Authorities recovered a small-caliber firearm at the scene.
People experiencing crisis will often seek sanctuary at a church. I mention this each week. We don’t know the specifics of how he ended up at this church, but it is a good idea to role these incidents from the newsletters into your church safety team training scenarios. It’s important to work out what your team would do in a similar situation.
Pella Church Offers Refuge During Middle School Knife Attack
Third Church in Pella, Iowa, became a sanctuary for students and staff during a knife attack at Pella Middle School on the morning of November 20, 2024. Pastor Darin Wogen was finishing a prayer meeting when students fled to the church in tears, seeking safety. The church went into lockdown as approximately 50 to 60 children arrived initially, followed by hundreds more shortly after. School officials, familiar with the church’s role as a safe haven, directed students there during the incident. The students took shelter in the sanctuary until the all-clear was given. Extra support was later provided to help students process the traumatic event. Pastor Wogen expressed gratitude for the church’s ability to serve as a refuge during the crisis, calling it an emotional but meaningful moment for the community.
Law enforcement often uses churches for crisis such as this. Our churches are large with abundant seating and victims and witnesses feel safe inside. Church staff is always welcoming and helpful. It is a natural fit. But, it also allows danger to come to your church. Make sure you drill for such a scenario that includes all of the church staff so everyone knows their roles.
Toms River Man Arrested After Dropping Gun in Church
Randolph Tashman, 60, of Toms River, New Jersey, was arrested on November 17, 2024, after a gun fell from his pocket during a church service in Point Pleasant Beach. Claiming to be law enforcement, Tashman was escorted outside by church security and detained by police. Authorities determined he was neither an officer nor the legal owner of the firearm. Tashman faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and impersonating a law enforcement officer. He is currently in custody awaiting a detention hearing.
Set aside Second Amendment issues for a moment. Let’s talk about securing your gun on your person. For on body carry, place it in a quality holster (no Uncle Mike’s felt holsters please) that is between your 12 o’clock and 3 or 9 o’clock positions (depending on which is your dominant hand). It should not be in your pocket. Items like keys have pulled the trigger on some guns and that is too close to pretty important anatomy like your femoral artery. If you carry off body (a purse or a certified man bag AKA a “Murse”), make sure that it has an internal holster as well. Too many items will grab on to that trigger and cause an unintended discharge.
Suspect Dies by Suicide After Police Pursuit Ends at Spencer Church
On November 19, 2024, a police pursuit in Spencer, Iowa, ended in tragedy when the suspect, Andrew Phillips, 30, of Spirit Lake, took his own life in the parking lot of First Christian Church. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office reported that the pursuit began when a deputy attempted to stop a stolen 1998 red Chevrolet pickup truck. Phillips, who fired a shot out of the vehicle during the chase, drove through a hospital construction zone, causing significant damage, before stopping at the church. Lockdowns were briefly enacted at the hospital, church, and Spencer Middle School as a precaution. Authorities, including the Spencer Police Department and Iowa State Patrol, secured the area, and no other injuries were reported. The investigation is ongoing.
Almost every edition of this newsletter has an incident where a suspect or victim seeks refuge at a church after fleeing police or danger. In this week’s incident, the church was closed thankfully. What if it wasn’t? You should 100% put incidents like this in your scenario line up. At least do a walk through with your team and talk about how you would lock the church down, move people away from danger and support law enforcement if they need it. If the suspect had remained barricaded in his car and this was my call, I would use the church as a command post while we negotiated with the suspect. I might also place a sniper team in the church as well. Just some things to think about as this happens each week.
Man Fatally Shot Near Boynton Beach Church
Brandon Rahming, 43, was shot and killed near New Disciples Worship Center in Boynton Beach, Florida, on November 15, 2024, following an altercation. Police responded to the scene around 1:45 p.m. and found Rahming with fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead shortly afterward by Boynton Beach Fire Rescue. Investigators have identified a person of interest and are gathering information from witnesses and the community. Anyone with details is urged to contact the Boynton Beach Police Department at 561-732-8116.
Suspect Arrested After Stabbing Victim in Ogden Church Parking Lot
A 22-year-old man, Christian Becerra, was arrested in Ogden, Utah, on November 16, 2024, for allegedly stabbing a victim who confronted him and another individual after they were seen rummaging through the victim’s car. The victim chased the suspects into a nearby church parking lot, where Becerra reportedly stabbed them in the chest, puncturing their right lung. Police found Becerra nearby, sweating and out of breath. He later admitted to trespassing in the vehicle and carrying out the stabbing but claimed self-defense, which police documents dispute. Becerra faces charges including aggravated assault, criminal trespass, and drug possession. The victim was hospitalized, and the case remains under investigation.
SEX CRIMES
Former Shawnee Pastor Arrested Amid Allegations of Abuse at Church
A 91-year-old former pastor of Shawnee First Church of Nazarene in Oklahoma has been charged with multiple counts of inappropriate conduct involving minors. Authorities allege the incidents, some reported as early as 2016, involved several young girls. Church records suggest that reports of misconduct were made to pastors and church officials at the time, but police were not contacted. The suspect was reportedly allowed to remain involved in church activities, and additional victims have since come forward. The charges include three counts of lewd acts with a child under 16 and two counts of inappropriate contact. The investigation is ongoing, with officials emphasizing the importance of accountability and justice for the victims.
So many church officials failed these victims. Now is a good time to mention that the word “Justice” appears in the bible 128 times. 128! You are failing our churches and our community by not reporting sex crimes. Don’t give any excuses. Just report it and let the police investigate. Be open with your congregation when you can and keep them informed while looking for additional victims. We have a huge problem in our churches with sexual assaults. Don’t be a part of that problem. Be the solution.
Ezekiel 34:2-4 (ESV)
"Ah, shepherds of Israel who have been feeding yourselves! Should not shepherds feed the sheep? You eat the fat, you clothe yourselves with the wool, you slaughter the fat ones, but you do not feed the sheep. The weak you have not strengthened, the sick you have not healed, the injured you have not bound up, the strayed you have not brought back, the lost you have not sought, and with force and harshness you have ruled them."
ARSON
None reported this week!
PROPERTY CRIMES
Two Arrested for Vehicle Break-Ins at High Point Church… Gun Stolen From Car
Police in High Point, North Carolina, arrested two individuals on November 10, 2024, for breaking into five vehicles at Crossover Community Church. The suspects, ages 18 and 20, reportedly stole items including phones, cash, credit cards, a wallet, and a handgun. Both face multiple felony charges, including breaking and entering, larceny of a firearm, credit card fraud, and identity theft. One suspect also had an outstanding arrest warrant in another county for similar crimes. Authorities have confirmed that one suspect is held on a $30,000 bond, while the other is being held without bond.
First things first, stop storing your gun in your car. You should have brought it into church with you. With that said, parking lot security is paramount. All problems start in the parking lot. Trouble has to come to you via the parking lot. Also, thieves know you will be leaving your car for at least an hour. That gives them an hour to break into multiple cars.
Scammers Steal Thousands from Jackson Church Through Mail Theft
Rising Sun M.B. Church in Jackson, Mississippi, lost over $3,000 after checks intended for bill payments were stolen from a USPS collection box at Westland Plaza Post Office. Thieves intercepted checks written to AT&T, Entergy, and an insurance company, altering and cashing them at check-cashing locations. Pastor James Shoulders, who has led the church for 30 years, expressed shock and warned others about the risks of using drop boxes for mail.
Mail theft is a nationwide issue and it is prolific. Drop all of your mail off directly with a carrier or deliver it straight to the post office inside of the facility.
Topeka Church Vandalized, Sustaining Thousands in Damages
Christian Lord Ministries in Topeka, Kansas, suffered extensive vandalism on November 17, 2024, causing thousands of dollars in damage to the building. The destruction included damage to floors, walls, windows, and a mailbox. Pastor Teddy Vann Vale expressed no anger toward the perpetrator, instead calling for prayers and understanding, emphasizing the need to support those who cause harm. Volunteers are invited to assist in restoration efforts at the church, located at 2421 SE California Ave, Topeka, KS.
This is your weekly reminder that you need a fire/burglar alarm and a 4k video system.
Provo Police Seek Suspects in Vandalism of Latter-day Saint Meetinghouse
Provo police are searching for individuals responsible for breaking into and vandalizing a meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1260 W. 1150 North. The incident occurred overnight on October 27, 2024, causing extensive damage estimated at several thousand dollars. Vandals smashed the organ, damaged a microphone system, attempted to flood a bathroom, broke TVs, and ripped pictures from the walls. Police believe the culprits may be juveniles, as they also ate ice cream from a freezer shortly before fleeing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Provo police at 801-852-6210.
INTERNATIONAL STORIES
Priest Attacked While Intervening in Theft at London Church
Reverend Ben Bell of St George the Martyr Church in Borough, London, was injured on November 18, 2024, while attempting to stop a man stealing a poppy appeal donation box. The suspect struck Reverend Bell in the face with a bottle, leaving him with cuts and bruises before fleeing the scene. Despite the assault, Reverend Bell stated the church would keep its doors open to the public, emphasizing their commitment to accessibility and community service. Metropolitan Police confirmed the incident and are continuing their investigation. No suspects have been apprehended.
Most attacks like this can be prevented through understanding pre-attack indicators. Check out my article below to avoid becoming a victim.
Finnish Politician Faces Ongoing Trial for Sharing Bible Verse
Päivi Räsänen, a Finnish member of parliament and former interior minister, continues to face legal battles over her public expression of Christian beliefs. Räsänen’s ordeal began in 2019 when she shared a Bible verse on social media questioning her church’s support of a Pride parade. This sparked multiple criminal complaints, leading to her interrogation and eventual prosecution under Finland’s laws against agitation toward minorities. While initially acquitted on all charges, Finland’s prosecutor general has appealed the decision to the Supreme Court. Räsänen argues the case sets a dangerous precedent for religious freedom, potentially criminalizing public agreement with biblical teachings. Despite the challenges, she remains steadfast, viewing the trial as an opportunity to share her faith and trusting the outcome to God.
Thank our Lord and Savior that I live in the United States where, for now, the government can’t prosecute me for sharing the Gospel. Readers in the U.S. should take a moment to thank the Lord that we have the Constitution.
24 Christians Killed, 9 Abducted in Nigeria Amid Ongoing Violence
Violent attacks in Nigeria have claimed the lives of 24 Christians and resulted in the abduction of nine others, according to recent reports. The violence occurred in multiple incidents targeting Christian communities, highlighting the ongoing persecution and instability in the region. Advocacy groups and local leaders are calling for increased protection and intervention to address the growing threat to religious minorities. The attacks underscore the urgent need for international attention and support for those affected by religious violence in Nigeria.
With regards to the man who dropped a gun in the church; Keith mentioned off body carrying. As a female I carry appendix position. I have tried, in vain, to convince my sister to wear her weapon and not carry it in her purse. First off and what I consider most important, is that you could never draw and fire quick enough in a hot situation. Secondly, there is the security issue of having a gun in a purse and being with grandchildren, or setting your purse down, just too many iffy situations in my opinion.