Cops: Religious Statues At L.I. Church Stolen, Moved
FREEPORT, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Police in Freeport are investigating after religious statues were stolen, moved or toppled at the village's Roman Catholic Church.
It happened around 9:30 p.m. Saturday at the Our Holy Redeemer Church on S. Ocean Avenue.
Nassau County police said the statue of St. Joseph was stolen from church grounds where it has stood for decades.
"It's devastating to have something like that torn apart, just taken away from the community," said parishioner Marjie Campiz. "There's no reason for that."
"I think it's terrible," said parishioner Bernie Caldwell. "I'm just shocked."
A second statue of St. Francis of Assisi was moved from the side of the church to the front of the building, but was not damaged, police said. It was found under a tree.
A third statue of St. Anthony was also toppled, but recovered, CBS 2's Jennifer McLogan reported.
The statues are worth thousands of dollars and the church community hopes whoever stole the statue of St. Joseph won't be able to sell it.
Police are reviewing surveillance video. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.
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