Suspect(s) Vandalize and Steal from Church NR15242jk

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles
Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying
the suspect(s) who burglarized and vandalized Saint Thomas the
Apostle Roman Catholic Church.

The burglary occurred between the hours of 9:45 p.m. and 5 a.m. on
July 15th and 16th on the 2700 block of Pico Boulevard in the heart
of the Byzantine-Latino Corridor. The suspect(s) entered the church
and ransacked the location taking several prized religious
articles. One of the items was the church’s golden tabernacle, a
liturgical furnishing used to house the Eucharist outside of Mass
and considered one of the most sacred items in a church. A gold
cross used for the Procession was also taken. The other items that
were stolen are of religious significance as well and decorated
with ornate religious figures making them easily
identifiable.

The suspect(s) also knocked over the pulpit used for services,
breaking it in half. In addition, multiple glass cases which hold
prayer candles were broken.

Detectives are requesting for the public’s assistance to apprehend
the suspect(s) and recover these items that have been a staple of
the church and sacred symbols to the parishioners who worship
there.

(Photo of similar tabernacle)

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call LAPD’s
Olympic Area Burglary Detectives at (213) 382-9446. During
non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to
1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous
should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).
Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number
274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text
messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go
to www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the
prompts.