Published: November 26, 2008 01:33 am         

CRIME: Break-in reported at area church

When Christian schoolteachers arrived at the Calvary Tabernacle Assembly of God church early Tuesday morning, they were surprised to discover the door to the Medina Area Association of Churches was wide open.

Church Trustee Curt Strickland said the vending machine had been broken into and some cash was removed, although the perpetrator left the change on the floor. Also, the church office was vandalized: The thief had broken glass plates to gain entry through three office doors and broke into the desk, apparently looking for keys to the safe.

Keys were left strewn about the floor with the abandoned safe. Strickland reported that at the time of the break-in, no money was in the office.

“From what I understand, the only money taken was from the soda machine,” Police Chief Jose Avila said. “It appears someone hid inside before they closed the building, and from that point, they did their thing. We are currently conducting interviews and speaking to (potential) suspects.”

Strickland said the facility at 324 Catherine St. is a large community center comprised of four separate entities. The Calvary Tabernacle Assembly of God, the former Medina High School, is also home to the Orleans County Christian School, MAAC clothing depot, Calvary Church Cupboard and church Kitchen of Love. The latter two serve as food pantries and soup kitchens for the needy, while the MAAC accepts clothing donations for people in need.

Strickland said the facility has been the target of a few acts of vandalism in the recent past, including last

week, when a cinder block was thrown through a window at the school.

“It’s a very large building, so it’s difficult to assess ... The building is open all day and there are a lot of people going in and out of there,” Avila said.

The chief said police don’t know if the incidents are related.

Strickland said he thinks the poor economy is the reason for the vandalism. “People are trying to find money or something valuable here. Being a community resource center, we’re asking for the community to keep its eyes and ears open. Please report any suspicious activity to the local police.”

Strickland also said he and other trustees are concerned for people working in the building, as well as the 18 students who attend school there during the day.

“Vandalism has been an issue with this building ever since we bought it in 1994,” he said.

Avila said the police department is working with members of the church to secure the premises and prevent any further break-ins. To report suspicious activity, contact the Medina Police Department at 798-5602.

Contact editor Jessica Wasmund at 798-1400, ext. 8225.