An Alabama man has been charged with making criminal threats and weapons violations after allegedly threatening a Catholic monastery in Orange County, self-identifying as "Michael the Angel of Death." KTLA reports that Joshua Michael Richardson, 38, is accused of sending frightening emails to St. Michael's Abbey, noting he was "sent to do the Lord's reaping," a reference to the biblical rider of the pale horse, a figure associated with death and destruction in the Book of Revelation.
Richardson was apprehended in Santa Monica with his vehicle containing gear such as body armor, a sword, and high-capacity magazines; however, no firearms were found at the scene, as reported by CBS News Los Angeles. Richardson was charged with making criminal threats and possessing six high-capacity firearm magazines.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer called the incident particularly disturbing and emphasized the importance of sanctity within church walls, "No one should have to worship in fear that a stranger would walk through the door with the intent to carry out their own day of judgement and determine who lives and who dies," Spitzer said, as per the Orange County District Attorney's Office. Richardson is currently being held without bail and is set for an arraignment.
