DSP News Release: Troopers Investigate Damage to Claymont Church

Location: Ascension Episcopal Church, 3717 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE

Date of Occurrence:  Sunday, August 29, 2011 between 8:50 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Resume: 

Claymont- The Delaware State Police are currently looking for the person or persons who broke into a Claymont Church and caused extensive damage to the interior.

On Sunday, August 28, troopers were told to respond to the Ascension Episcopal Church located in the 3700 block of Philadelphia Pike in Claymont for the report of a burglary. Upon arriving at the church, troopers discovered that an unknown suspect had smashed the glass to a door of the church and then entered the building. Once inside, the suspect proceeded to cause thousands of dollars in damage to numerous religious items including stained glass windows, bibles, and pictures. He also caused damage to the altar and altar book. The suspect then fled the building in an unknown direction. No items were removed from the church.

This investigation into this crime is on-going at this time. Detectives are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to this incident to contact Detective John Penrod at Troop 2 at 302-834-2630 ext. 284.   Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES).  Tipsters may also provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Callers can also submit information via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com.

Released Monday, August 29, 2011 at 12:00 p.m.