Police were called to Beulah Baptist Church on 14th Street after someone discovered the church had been broken into.
According to the report, between $300 and $400 was missing from inside the church.
Officers took information for a theft report as the investigation continues. But that was far from the only theft call that day.
📺 HOUSEGUEST DISAPPEARS — SO DOES THE TV
Not long afterward, officers were called to Hudson House Apartments on 5th Street after a resident reported a television missing.
The caller told police he had allowed a 22-year-old man he only knew as “Alex” to stay with him.
When he woke up, both Alex and his 32-inch ONN television were gone.
The resident admitted he takes sleeping medication and said Alex was the only person he knew had been there.
Police advised him to try to obtain the man’s last name so officers could investigate further.
🛠️ TOOLS REPORTED STOLEN
Then around 4:30 p.m., another theft report came in from Kentland Avenue.
A caller told police someone had stolen:
- A 1/2-inch impact set
- A Stihl weed eater
Officers again took information for a report.
👀 WHY CHURCH THEFTS HIT DIFFERENT
Break-ins at churches tend to strike a nerve in communities because churches often operate on donations and trust.
Money stolen from a church can impact:
- Outreach programs
- Food ministries
- Utility bills
- Community services
⚠️ COMMON THEMES IN THESE CASES
Police say many theft cases involve:
- People known to the victim
- Unlocked property
- Temporary guests
- Easily sold items like tools and electronics
🏠 HOW TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY
A few simple steps can help:
- Keep serial numbers recorded
- Lock sheds, garages, and church offices
- Use cameras when possible
- Be cautious about allowing unfamiliar people to stay overnight
- Report suspicious activity quickly
Because sometimes the hardest thefts to deal with aren’t just about money.