Arrest Made in Vandalism of North Hollywood Church

A 58-year-old man was arrested Monday for allegedly vandalizing a landmark Roman Catholic church in North Hollywood.

Russel Congleton was arrested for commercial burglary, arson and vandalism by the Los Angeles Police Department. 

The recent incidents occurred on Wednesday, July 25, 2018 at approximately 4:45am.

Congleton allegedly forced his way through a double door leading into the church and once inside attempted to set three separate fires before vandalizing the premises, according to the LAPD.

Police allege he smashed stained glass windows and damaged religious statues, books, candles and holders and spread holy oils throughout the church.

"Upon exiting the building, he set a fourth fire on the outer door,'' according to a police statement. "During his crime spree, he set a fire to a trash dumpster at nearby Chase bank and vandalized five vehicles by smashing the windows.''

Congleton was being held at the Van Nuys jail in lieu of $46,000 bail, according to sheriff's records.

The case was investigated by the multi-agency House of Worship Task Force. Police say they will present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office on Wednesday.

Copyright CNS - City News Service
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