The Rochester Borough Police Department is actively seeking to identify a man accused of burglarizing the Grace Lutheran Church. The incident occurred Sunday afternoon, and the alleged culprit was captured on the church's security footage, where he was seen donning a black toque cap, sunglasses, and a green winter jacket, blue jeans, and black shoes; additionally, he carried a black backpack, as WTAE detailed in their report.
Pastor Greggory Clagg stated, per WPXI, that the burglar rummaged through gifts intended for The Salvation Army and Glade Run and also pilfered offerings from the church office, including checks that were designated for a community table soup dinner. He emphasized that the trespasser not only violated sacred trust but also endangered the security of the congregation.
Clagg made an unusual plea, expressing a desire to work with the perpetrator towards a positive outcome: "I would like to appeal to this individual to just help us out and see if we can come to an arrangement that would be more long-term advantageous for him, instead of trying to prosecute him or cause more harm. We’d like to, really, get long-term assistance for him," the pastor said, as reported by WPXI, signaling a path to redemption over retribution.
The suspect, described as of average height with a thin build and either clean-shaven or sporting light facial hair, remains unidentified, with the police urging anyone with information to step forward. Those with potential leads about this case are encouraged to contact the Rochester Borough Police Department at 724-775-0880.
