Leads sought into church vandalism

Mountain Home police are asking the public's help for leads into their investigation of vandalism at the local Catholic church last week.

Police responded to Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church the evening of July 17 after a member of the church choir reported that someone had broken into the church.

The incident happened between 3:30 and 6 p.m. Wednesday after the main office had closed for the day, according to a church spokesperson. The church was normally left open during the day to allow people to pray before the building was locked at night.

A microphone in the choir area was reportedly stolen, along with other property. A light fixture in the main church was broken along with at least one crucifix worn by those participating in various ministries during each Mass.

In addition, furniture and other church property were strewn inside and outside of the building with some of the items tossed into a nearby dumpster.

The church spokesperson added that the altar and sacristy were not damaged during the crime.

Those with any information regarding the incident are asked to call Detective Sgt. Russell Griggs at 587-2101. People may also submit information anonymously through the department's Silent Witness program by going online to www.mhpd.net/silentwitness.htm.