JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office was investigating after a church in a Northside neighborhood was burglarized multiple times last week.
Leaders of the church Power of the Holy Ghost Ministries on Leona Street in the Picketville area said they are still recovering after experiencing two break-ins days apart.
The incidents have left the church with significant damage and stolen property, prompting a call for help from the community.
The first break-in happened on Jan. 13. The alarm was triggered, but there was a delay in police response due to a miscommunication with the alarm company. By the time the police arrived, the intruders had already ransacked the church and stolen valuable items.
“They came in from the side door,” Kenny Freeney, whose mom pastors the church, explained. “They took Peavey speakers, some guitars, and stole the church computers.”
The intruders returned early Friday morning, causing further damage in their search for valuables. They broke windows and damaged doors in their attempt to gain entry.
“It’s beyond disrespectful,” Freeney said.
Freeney said the church has been a staple in the community for years and is known for its charitable work, including providing clothing and food to those in need.
The break-ins have not only caused physical damage but have also placed a financial burden on the church’s leaders.
“We need the community to help us rebuild,” said Freeney. “It’s overwhelming to come out of pocket to fix what was never broken.”
The church is seeking help from the community to replace stolen items, repair damages, and improve security measures. They have set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of rebuilding and securing the church.
JSO said no arrests have been made in connection with the burglaries.
Anyone with information or video surveillance is asked to call JSO at 904-630-0500, email jsocrimetips@jaxsheriff.org or call CrimeStoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.