MARIETTA, Ga. — A 25-year-old man has been arrested after police say he attempted to burglarize a church that had previously helped him financially.
According to authorities, Quintavious Jones is facing charges of burglary and criminal damage to property following an incident at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Marietta, Georgia.
Police say the situation began in mid-February when Jones approached the church asking for assistance. Church staff agreed to help and reportedly paid for a hotel room for him during a time of need.
However, investigators say Jones returned about a week later and entered the church again—this time with the alleged intent to steal.
Surveillance footage inside the church reportedly shows Jones walking around the building before attempting to pry open an offering box using a pair of scissors.
Authorities said he was unable to open the box, but the donation container was significantly damaged during the attempt. Police said the offering box contained money donated by members of the congregation.
“The suspect wasn’t able to get into the box, but you can see he was trying to take money,” a Marietta police officer told reporters while describing the surveillance footage.
According to police, Jones returned to the church again roughly three days later and asked for financial help once more.
This time, church staff recognized him and contacted law enforcement.
Officers arrived and arrested Jones. He was later charged with burglary and criminal damage to property in connection with the incident.
The situation has surprised many local residents, particularly because the church had recently helped the suspect.
Some community members expressed disappointment about the alleged crime, saying it was upsetting to see generosity repaid in that way.
Others said they hope the situation serves as a reminder of the challenges churches face while trying to assist people in need.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have not released additional details about the case or whether further charges could be filed.
Video Credit: FOX 5 Atlanta |