Vandals strike church, paint satanic graffiti
Two teens have reportedly confessed to vandalizing a church parsonage, painting graffiti with satanic overtones inside the house as morning services were being held next door.
The suspects, Jeremy Bouldin, 19, and Justin Conroy, 16, reportedly still had paint on their hands from the vandalism when they were questioned by officers a short time after the break-in was discovered in the parsonage of Bybee Branch Church of Christ just after noon last Sunday.
One of the boys was reportedly seen leaving the unoccupied residence located just yards from the church prompting a search. It was at that time evidence of a break-in and vandalism to the basement were found.
The vandalism reportedly included various writings in paint, many of a blasphemous and/or satanic nature. The paint was still wet when it was discovered by minister Tony Lawrence who lived in the parsonage for 16 years before moving into his own house a few years ago.
The church is actually seeking to sell the structure itself to be moved to another location to make more room available on the property.
However, Lawrence said he holds no grudge against the youths.
“I have no hard feelings,” Lawrence said. “Actually, I feel sorry for them more than anything.”
The youths were caught when one of them was spotted nearby as police were investigating the crime. During questioning, lawmen noted paint on the suspects’ hands.
The youths reportedly confessed during questioning. Bouldin will face preliminary hearing in General Sessions Court while Conroy will have his case heard in Juvenile Court.