Church burglary, vandalism under investigation

Laurel County Sheriff’s deputies are investigating the vandalism and burglary of a Keavy area church Sunday.

Deputy Gilbert Acciardo, the department’s public affairs officer, said officers were called to Mt. Zion Church of God on Level Green Road off of Ky. 312 after members discovered the damage when they arrived for Sunday services.

“They destroyed the place, but I think they just broke in to steal whatever they could get,” Acciardo said.

The perpetrator(s) threw a cinder block through a window to gain entry to the church. Once inside, the perpetrator(s) took multiple guitars and other church equipment, rummaging through cabinets and knocking equipment into the floor in the process.

In addition, the air conditioner unit outside was knocked off its pedestal.

Acciardo said this appears to be an isolated incident in Laurel County.

“The last time we investigated something like this involving a church was last year up in East Bernstadt,” Acciardo said.

Despite the damage, the church held a prayer service.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the sheriff’s department at (606) 864-6600 or (606) 878-7000.

Callers may remain anonymous.