Police Seek Woman Accused Of Causing About $10K In Damage At Queens Church
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Police say the same woman vandalized a Queens church two weeks in a row, causing thousands of dollars in damage.
It happened at St. Gerard Majella on 91st Avenue in Hollis.
Father Josephjude C. Gannon, pastor of St. Gerard Majella, says she caused about $10,000 in damage.
"It's a kick in the stomach. It hurts," Gannon told CBS2's Jennifer McLogan.
Surveillance video from Sunday shows a woman breaking into the church parking lot and damaging Italian-crafted Rosary Stations, parish signs and the sprinkler system.
"Some pieces are just shattered and have to be resent from Italy," Gannon said.
Police believe the same suspect also vandalized church property on Sept. 8. In surveillance video from that incident, a woman was seen ripping down signs and damaging potted plants in the parking lot.
"It's sad somebody vandalized this. I see many coming right here to bench come and pray," Hollis homeowner Tyrone Brown said.
"Hollis, this is a very welcoming and home-feeling community, and I actually went to St. Gerard," parishioner Stanton Sanichar said.
St. Gerard is known as the patron saint of expectant mothers and a recent fundraiser from New York couples helped pay for the now-destroyed art.
"This person needs to be brought to justice. We are working with the NYPD and we need to continue to foster an environment of respect," said Diocese of Brooklyn spokesman John Quaglione.
Investigators say the suspect carries a bag loaded with tools and sharp instruments, including a hacksaw.
"It's also a matter of time to make sure we get her before she hurts herself or others or before it escalates to something else," Gannon said.
Anyone with information is asked to call CRIME STOPPERS at (800) 577-TIPS.
