Buffalo Police Warn of Worship Service Thefts

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Story Published: Nov 20, 2009 at 5:47 PM EST

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2009 at 5:47 PM EST

Buffalo Police are warning people to be aware of their surroundings and property, even while attending worship services this holiday season.

Multimedia Watch The Video Police officials say there has been an unusually high amount of larcenies from churches reported in the recent past, which has prompted this police warning to the church-going public.

In some cases, victims have been distracted or have left the church pew to receive communion when the theft occurs. Sometimes purses or items left in the pew are being taken without the owner knowing.

"Often times, these types of crime aren't discovered until the victim is looking for a credit card or drivers license, and realize they were targeted," said Chief of Detectives Dennis J. Richards.

Police believe the rash of larcenies are related, since four reports were filed on November 15 in downtown and North Buffalo churches.

"It is a sad reality that the criminal element will take advantage of an opportunity -- even if they are in God's house," added Richards.

Anyone with information regarding incidents of this type are asked to call the police Confidential Tip Line at 847-2255.

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