Church Crime Watch for 5/4/2024
In this edition:
VIOLENT CRIME
Threat to "Shoot Up" Church in Murrells Inlet Leads to Arrests
Cincinnati Police to Implement New Measures to Curb Drug Activity near St. Francis Seraph Church
Special Attention Methodist Churches
Lady Gaga's Father Assaulted After Leaving Church
Assault at Concord Church Food Pantry Leads to Arrest
Suspicious Incidents at Synagogues in Fresno Investigated
SEXUAL ASSAULTS
Youth Pastor Arrested for Obscene Internet Contact with a Minor in Metter, GA
Bathroom Peeper at Burlington Church
Investigation at Arkansas Church Involving Local Teacher and Inappropriate Behavior With Children
Garden Grove Man Sentenced for Sex Crimes Committed While Volunteering at Churches
Metro Atlanta Church Employee Arrested on Child Exploitation Charges
ARSON
Tucson Man to Represent Himself in Church Arson Case
Arson Charges for New Mexico Man in Yucaipa Church and Business Fires
FOLLOW UP STORIES
DOJ Review Finds No Evidence of Religious Bias in FBI Memo on 'Radical Traditionalist' Catholics
Fatal Attempted Robbery in Church Parking Lot Leads to Prison Sentence
PROPERTY CRIME
Hate Crime Investigation Underway at Saint Alban's Episcopal Church in Glen Burnie
Priest Accused of Misusing Funds for Mobile Games at St. Thomas More Church
Scam Scandal at Harlem's Abyssinian Baptist Church
INTERNATIONAL STORIES
Restrictions Imposed on Christian Gatherings in Chin State, Myanmar
Rising Violence in South Africa Claims Life of Priest
VIOLENT CRIME
Threat to "Shoot Up" Church in Murrells Inlet Leads to Arrests
In Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, Marcell Bernette Bryant Renta and her son, Daniel Quardre Bryant, have been arrested after allegedly threatening violence against the Greater Gordon Chapel AME Church. The threat was reported to the Georgetown County Sheriff's Office by a church member, who stated that Renta made the threatening comment following accusations that her children had stolen a speaker from the church. Although Renta claimed the comment was made in jest, a search of her home led to the discovery of multiple weapons, including a Glock handgun modified illegally to function as a machine gun, found under her son's mattress. Charges against Renta include unlawful communication, and her son faces charges related to the possession of an illegal machine gun. Both are currently detained at the Georgetown County Detention Center as the investigation continues.
Take threats like this very seriously. Don’t wave them off. Expect that they will carry through with their threats.
Cincinnati Police to Implement New Measures to Curb Drug Activity near St. Francis Seraph Church
In Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, known for its high crime rates, a new initiative is set to be implemented to tackle ongoing drug-related activities. The area around St. Francis Seraph Church has been identified as particularly problematic, with frequent incidents including a recent shooting where a man was injured. In response, Cincinnati Police, under the direction of Sgt. Tim Eppstein and the PIVOT program, plan to erect barricades at strategic points along Republic Street at Green Street. These measures aim to disrupt the flow of 'drive-thru drug market' activities by limiting vehicle access used primarily for drug transactions. The plan also includes securing a known congregation spot behind the OTR recreation center and increasing police patrols in the area.
United Methodist Church Repeals Ban on LGBTQ Clergy
The United Methodist Church, during a major conference held in Charlotte, North Carolina, has repealed its longstanding ban on LGBTQ clergy. This decision was part of the church's efforts to address and modify its existing policies concerning LGBTQ issues. As a result, the church has now removed the barriers that previously prevented LGBTQ individuals from serving as clergy.
First, I put this in here because this will result in crime. However, if Paul were alive today he’d be writing one big long letter to the Methodist church. With that said, I expect Methodist churches everywhere to start becoming victims of vandalism due to their position. With that said, it is to be expected when you stray outside of the teachings of the Bible. The Methodist church here in Boise, Idaho decided to celebrate by holding a book reading about transgender youth. Seriously, I need Paul to write that letter ASAP.
Galatians 1:6-8: "I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed."
Lady Gaga's Father Assaulted After Leaving Church
Joe Germanotta, father of pop star Lady Gaga and owner of Joanne Trattoria, was reportedly attacked outside his church in New York City, shedding light on broader public safety and small business challenges in the area. Germanotta described the attack as unprovoked, involving an individual who first confronted the church's pastor before targeting him. This incident occurred in the context of rising local crime rates, which Germanotta has previously attributed to economic difficulties and inadequate responses to the city's homelessness and crime issues.
Maintain situation awareness at all times. Crime involving people leaving church in NYC has been in this newsletter almost every week.
Assault at Concord Church Food Pantry Leads to Arrest
In Concord, New Hampshire, an incident at a church food pantry resulted in the arrest of a local man. Bluestone Rhau, 48, faces multiple felony charges, including second-degree assault with a deadly weapon, criminal threatening with a deadly weapon, and reckless conduct with a deadly weapon. The altercation, which involved a handgun, occurred on the evening of Tuesday at the food pantry. Concord police took Rhau into custody following the event, emphasizing the severity of the charges related to the use of a deadly weapon in a public service setting.
Those of you that are feeding and helping the homeless are at an increased rate of attack. Please maintain situation awareness and disengage from people that cannot be deescalated.
Suspicious Incidents at Synagogues in Fresno Investigated
Fresno police are currently investigating the posting of unwanted flyers at two religious sites: Temple Beth Israel and St. Anthony of Padua Church. The incidents, which occurred recently, involved flyers with religious messages and biblical quotations, some of which were attributed to a "John Marks letter to the apostate church in Babylon." The flyers also included QR codes linking to a religious group's website. Authorities have taken two suspects into custody who are linked to a van marked with "Repent or Perish," which was found at St. Anthony of Padua. Although initially thought to belong to the church, the van is believed to be owned by the suspects. The police are investigating these acts but have not yet classified them as hate crimes.
Read the full article on GV Wire.
SEXUAL ASSAULTS
Youth Pastor Arrested for Obscene Internet Contact with a Minor in Metter, GA
In Metter, Georgia, Benjamin Dalton Houser, a youth pastor at Cedar Street Baptist Church, has been arrested and charged with obscene internet contact with a minor. The arrest was made on April 26th by the Candler County Sheriff’s Office. This felony charge stems from allegations of inappropriate text messaging with youth members of the church. Cedar Street Baptist Church responded swiftly by removing Houser from his role on March 27th, 2024, immediately after the allegations came to light, and reported the incident to law enforcement. Houser is currently held at the Candler County Jail with a bond set at $25,000 cash or $50,000 property. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is leading the ongoing investigation into these serious allegations.
The church did a great job handling this. Many churches try to bury their dirt instead of doing the right thing and calling the police. Make sure you are doing background checks of ALL church employees and volunteers.
Bathroom Peeper at Burlington Church
In Burlington, North Carolina, a young individual has been arrested following allegations of setting up a recording device in a church bathroom. The incident occurred at the Jesus es Vida Church, where authorities were alerted to suspicious activity in the female restroom. The individual has been charged with indecent liberties and secretly peeping into an occupied room. Currently held at the Alamance County Detention Center with a set bond, the investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement open to the possibility of further charges as they seek to determine if there are additional victims.
Investigation at Arkansas Church Involving Local Teacher and Inappropriate Behavior With Children
A teacher in Little Rock, Arkansas, has been arrested following allegations of inappropriate behavior with a minor she met through her volunteer work at Immanuel Baptist Church. The teacher, who also worked at Little Rock Christian Academy, initially faced scrutiny in 2020 when questionable messages were found on a youth's phone, prompting a report to the church leadership. The church, known for its historical connection to former President Bill Clinton, initiated an internal review, which led to broader investigations. The teacher, now on administrative leave from Sylvan Hills Middle School, faces serious charges and was released on bond. Authorities and the community remain focused on the ongoing investigation to ensure safety and justice.
Pedophiles aren’t just men. Here, she was a volunteer at the church. Even volunteers need to have a strong background check and they need to be monitored. have policies at your church that protect our children.
Garden Grove Man Sentenced for Sex Crimes Committed While Volunteering at Churches
Terry Lyn Myers, a 67-year-old man from Garden Grove, has been sentenced to 98 years to life in prison following his conviction on multiple felony charges. The charges included aggravated sexual assault of a child and lewd acts on a minor, with offenses dating back to 1997. Myers, who volunteered at various churches in Orange County, was arrested after allegations surfaced regarding his conduct during his time at these institutions.
Pedophiles target churches because of their lax background checks, their loving nature and their forgiveness. Weed them out with a good background check and a good policy protecting your children.
Metro Atlanta Church Employee Arrested on Child Exploitation Charges
In Atlanta, Georgia, a church employee has been taken into custody under serious allegations involving the sexual exploitation of children. The Roswell Police Department arrested 59-year-old Ralph Britt Jr. after an investigation linked him to child sexual abuse material transmitted through peer-to-peer networks. Britt, who had worked closely with children at Dunwoody Baptist Church for over two decades in various capacities, was arrested at the church premises. Authorities executed a search warrant at his home, where they found additional incriminating material and seized several electronic devices. Britt is now facing multiple counts of sexual exploitation of children, with the possibility of additional charges as the investigation continues. The church is cooperating fully with law enforcement, and pastoral staff are providing support and counseling to the congregation.
ARSON
Tucson Man to Represent Himself in Church Arson Case
In Tucson, Arizona, Eric Ridenour, facing potential imprisonment exceeding 100 years, has decided to represent himself in a court case where he is accused of setting fire to Saint Stephens Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church in Douglas. The arsons, which took place on May 22, 2023, were reportedly motivated by Ridenour's disapproval of women and homosexuals holding positions of authority within these churches. During his hearings, despite repeated advisements from Judge Scott Rash regarding the severity of his charges and the high likelihood of conviction without proper legal representation, Ridenour maintained his decision to defend himself, citing his religious beliefs as the guiding force. His trial is scheduled for July 8, strategically planned to accommodate the availability of the pastor from First Presbyterian Church. Ridenour's firm stance on self-representation stems from his spiritual commitment, even though it risks a sentence that could confine him for 110 years.
Arson Charges for New Mexico Man in Yucaipa Church and Business Fires
Jonathan Nava, 37, from New Mexico, faces arson charges after being linked to fires set at a church and a business in Yucaipa, California. The incidents, which occurred on April 24, involved Nava allegedly throwing a gasoline can at a church on Avenue H and Harmony Lane, causing a fire. Authorities, including ATF, CAL FIRE, and San Bernardino County law enforcement, were alerted and began an investigation that led to Nava's arrest. His involvement was confirmed through physical and video evidence tying his vehicle, a silver/gray early '90s Toyota pickup, to both crime scenes. Following his arrest, Nava, who sustained leg injuries, was booked into West Valley Detention Center with bail set at $90,000. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities continue to encourage anyone with information to come forward.
There’s at least one arson on this newsletter each week. Make sure that you have a burglar/fire alarm and a 4k video system.
FOLLOW UP STORIES
DOJ Review Finds No Evidence of Religious Bias in FBI Memo on 'Radical Traditionalist' Catholics
A Department of Justice investigation has concluded there was no religious bias in the creation of a controversial FBI memo that identified potential threats among "radical traditionalist" Catholics, as reported by OSV News. The memo, which has been retracted, was criticized for suggesting these individuals could be prone to racially or ethnically motivated violence. The DOJ's Office of Inspector General conducted a 120-day review after Congress demanded scrutiny over the document's implications. Although the review found no malicious intent, it did identify failures in adhering to FBI analytic standards, resulting in an inaccurate portrayal of religious beliefs as investigative criteria. In response, the FBI has expanded training on analytical tradecraft and domestic terrorism terminology and formally admonished the involved employees. The investigation stemmed from activities linked to an individual known as "Defendant A," whose threatening behavior and rhetoric had been under FBI surveillance since 2019, leading to his later indictments related to possessing ammunition and destructive devices. The FBI has reiterated that its operations respect constitutional rights and do not target religious practices.
I have worked many cases with the FBI while I was a detective. I can say with certainty that they are an inept organization. I have had numerous police officers report to me that they have heard JTTF updates where JTTF SAC’s (Joint Terrorism Task Force Supervisory Special Agent) have identified conservatives as the biggest threat to the United States (specifically discounting Middle East terrorism). I do believe that they had targeted Catholics and this watered down memo alludes to that.
Acts 4:27-29
For truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness.
Fatal Attempted Robbery in Church Parking Lot Leads to Prison Sentence
In a tragic incident stemming from a planned robbery, 18-year-old Philip Lee Walls from Derby has been sentenced to 27 and a half years in prison for the December 2023 fatal shooting of 34-year-old Daniel McPherson in Wichita. The crime, characterized by second-degree intentional murder, attempted aggravated robbery, and aggravated kidnapping, occurred near a church at 1755 E. MacArthur. Walls and his accomplice, James Giovanni Lee Sawyer, who faces his own set of charges, orchestrated a plot to rob McPherson, leading to a deadly confrontation in a church parking lot. The situation escalated when McPherson, attempting to defend himself, shot Walls, prompting Sawyer to retaliate fatally. Walls, injured in the altercation, was arrested in Oklahoma following the incident.
Read more about this case on Kansas.com.
PROPERTY CRIME
Hate Crime Investigation Underway at Saint Alban's Episcopal Church in Glen Burnie
In Glen Burnie, Maryland, Saint Alban's Episcopal Church became the scene of a suspected hate crime following an act of vandalism. On a Sunday evening around 6 p.m., two teenagers, one male and one female, reportedly damaged a memorial plaque in the church's garden using a concrete fragment from a nearby flower bed. Anne Arundel County police were alerted to the incident the following morning by church staff and are currently investigating the matter as a hate crime due to the religious nature of the property involved. The police are urging anyone with information about this incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
Make sure you have a burglar alarm, fire alarm and a 4k video system! Why haven’t you done that yet!
Priest Accused of Misusing Funds for Mobile Games at St. Thomas More Church
In Pottstown, Pennsylvania, Rev. Lawrence Kozak has been charged with theft after allegedly using a credit card from St. Thomas More Church to fund an addiction to mobile games, accumulating over $40,000 in charges. The misuse of funds, which began in September 2019 and continued until July 2022, was discovered by an accountant reviewing the church's financial statements. Among the items bought were not only game-related purchases but also personal items sent to an address associated with Kozak's goddaughter. Kozak, who has admitted to his addiction and has begun seeking counseling, claimed the use of the church's credit card was unintentional, suggesting he might have used it accidentally as it was linked to his phone for other church-related expenses. He has already paid back $10,000 and sent an additional $8,000 in reimbursements to the church.
Fraud is a huge issue in churches. I’ve written extensively about the need for regular audits by independent persons. It is just good business practices.
Scam Scandal at Harlem's Abyssinian Baptist Church
A scandal at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, involving Deacon Jerome Yeiser accused of defrauding parishioners, has stirred significant community and legal turmoil. Yeiser is alleged to have posed as a contractor, deceiving church members, including homeowners Mara Porter and her husband, out of nearly $200,000 intended for home renovations. The complexity increased as Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a church member and Sunday school teacher for Yeiser's daughters, recused himself due to conflict of interest, leading to initial involvement from the Bronx District Attorney’s Office. However, the Bronx prosecutors have withdrawn from pursuing grand larceny charges citing insufficient evidence and resources. The affected homeowners are calling for the case's reassessment and reopening, while Yeiser has denied the allegations and countersued for defamation.
My biggest shock of this case was that DA Alvin Bragg goes to church. I think he should be reading the bible (and the constitution) a little more.
INTERNATIONAL STORIES
Restrictions Imposed on Christian Gatherings in Chin State, Myanmar
In Hakha, the capital of the Christian-majority Chin State in Myanmar, the military has enforced new restrictions on religious gatherings following a recent attack involving a militia and a government convoy. This directive, issued by the Tatmadaw (Myanmar's military) on April 22, prohibits assemblies of more than five individuals for church services and other religious activities. These measures are in response to an incident on April 12 and are set to last until June 22. This situation poses a significant challenge for local Christians, as many families in Chin State typically exceed five members, complicating their ability to worship and gather freely. Additionally, since February 2023, seven townships in Chin State have been under martial law, further restricting gatherings and requiring Christians to report those attending church services.
Rising Violence in South Africa Claims Life of Priest
Father Paul Tatu Mothobi, a priest from the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), was tragically found deceased with bullet wounds in his car along a major road in South Africa. This incident underscores the escalating security crisis in the region. Father Mothobi, who was pursuing his Doctorate in Communication at the University of Johannesburg, had served extensively in media and communications for the SACBC. His death is seen not only as a personal tragedy but as a stark indicator of the broader deterioration of security and morality in the country. This loss is deeply felt among those who knew him, highlighting his dedication to his faith and community. The SACBC and colleagues have expressed profound shock and sadness, emphasizing the urgent need for effective measures to protect citizens and clergy in the face of increasing violence.
That Little Rock church had half its people and volunteers leave over the ineptness of handling the sex offender.
This is your enemy, politically & religiously. https://www.bitchute.com/video/baIFvCLzYZCg/