INDIANAPOLIS — Police has charged two juveniles for their alleged roles in the vandalism of a church located in Indy's Haughville neighborhood.
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department's southwest district detectives were able to locate and take the suspects into custody two days after the incident, police said.
The 16-year-old female and 17-year-old male are both charged with Institutional Criminal Mischief, a level 6 felony.
The incident occurred at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1301 N Goodlet Avenue on Tuesday around 5 p.m., resulting in damage to the church property, a church bus, and a storage shed.
Upon receiving notification from the church, IMPD officers promptly arrived on the scene to initiate their investigation. Upon inspection, officers discovered that graffiti had been painted on various surfaces.
The graffiti included alarming phrases such as “666” and “The devil rules.” This type of vandalism has left the church community shaken and concerned for their safety.
Lisa Shanklin, a member of the church, expressed her dismay over the incident, stating, "It's terrible. My pastor opens up this church to everybody. The whole community should be up here trying to clean this church up, and if they know who did it turn them in."
After arrests were made, IMPD southwest district commander Pilkington made the following statement:
"I am grateful to our detectives and officers who solved this case so quickly and to the church members and community members who assisted with the investigation,” said Commander Pilkington. “This arrest demonstrates our commitment to justice and sends a clear message that acts of vandalism and hate will not be tolerated in our city. This is not just about repairing physical damage; it's about restoring a sense of safety and respect within our community.”
A community prayer vigil will be held at the church on Friday at 6 p.m. with an announcement from IMPD.
