Printed Wednesday, May 22, 2013


Dozens of church break-ins under investigation

BLADE STAFF

Police released this photo from a surveillance camera during one of the churches break-ins. The church was not identified.
Police released this photo from a surveillance camera during one of the churches break-ins. The church was not identified.
Investigators from Michigan and Ohio are investigating several dozen break-ins at churches in at least nine counties.

Break-ins have been reported in Monroe County, Lenawee County, Fulton County, Washtenaw County, Hillsdale County, Genesee County, Livingston County, Wayne County, and St. Clair County. All of the sheriff's departments are involved in the investigation, as are the Michigan State Police and Erie Township, Mich., police.

Approximately 50 churches have been broken into. In each incident, a window or door was pried open, officials said.

Police said this is a person of interest regarding the church break-ins.
Police said this is a person of interest regarding the church break-ins.
The suspects appear to be looking specifically for cash, although in at least two break-ins computers were taken. Officials have also reported instruments have been taken.

Anyone with information about the break-ins is asked to call any of the involved departments. Officials today released photos of two men who they are describing as persons of interest in the crimes and ask those with information to call.

The Lenawee County Crime Stopper number is 517-266-6161; the Fulton County Crime Stoppers number is 1-800-255-1122.