3 New York Catholic Churches Targeted in 3 Weeks Prompting State Senator Spanton to Push for Increased Security

In recent weeks, a series of unsettling crimes targeting Catholic churches across Staten Island has prompted swift condemnation from local leaders and a push for increased security. State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, representing New York's 23rd District, issued a formal statement on January 11, 2026, describing the incidents as "vile" and "disturbing."

The events involve three distinct parishes and vary from property theft to the violent desecration of sacred altars.

Recent Incidents in Staten Island

1. St. Sylvester’s Church: Christmas Day Defacement

On December 25, 2025, during one of the most sacred days of the liturgical calendar, St. Sylvester’s Church was the site of a graphic act of vandalism. Security footage captured an individual defacing the church with human feces during the morning Christmas Mass.

The pastor, Father Jacob Thumma, noted that the perpetrator appeared to be a "disturbed person" and expressed sorrow that such an act would occur on a day of joy. Senator Scarcella-Spanton highlighted this incident as a particularly egregious example of the "vile events" taking place in the community.

2. St. Roch’s Church: Rectory Burglary

Just days later, on December 28, 2025, a break-in occurred at the rectory of St. Roch’s Roman Catholic Church. While the reported theft was minor—a single towel was taken—the breach of the private residence for clergy added to the growing sense of unease among the borough's Catholic population.

3. St. Ann’s Church: Violent Altar Destruction

The most violent incident occurred on Friday, January 9, 2026, at St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church in Dongan Hills. During a 7:00 a.m. Mass, a man entered the sanctuary and began a destructive rampage. According to witness reports and law enforcement:

  • The assailant broke an angel statue and snatched a cross and missal from the altar.

  • He tore down floral arrangements and caused damage to the church’s marble floor.

  • The NYPD was forced to use a taser to subdue the individual after he fought with responding officers, resulting in minor injuries to two officers.

Senator Scarcella-Spanton, who grew up in the Dongan Hills neighborhood and attended preschool at St. Ann’s, stated that this specific attack "particularly affected" her due to her deep personal ties to the parish.

Response and Security Measures

While the Senator noted that the incidents do not currently appear to be a coordinated effort by a single group, she is advocating for a proactive response to protect houses of worship.

"Church is a place of peace and reflection; nobody should feel unsafe where they pray." — Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton

Key Next Steps:

  • NYPD Collaboration: The Senator’s team is in active contact with law enforcement to facilitate meetings between local precincts and clergy.

  • Security Funding: Scarcella-Spanton has pointed to the New York State Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes program. This initiative provides grants for "vulnerable institutions," including houses of worship, to fund security personnel, cameras, and structural reinforcements.

  • Community Resilience: Despite the trauma of the attacks, parishes like St. Ann’s have reported a surge in Mass attendance following the incidents, as the community rallies to support their local churches.

Sources

The Good Newsroom (Archdiocese of New York): "Vandalism Incidents Shake Staten Island Parish" (Jan 13, 2026).

  • ABC 7 New York / Hoodline: "Police Tase Man After Violent Disturbance at St. Ann’s Church" (Jan 12, 2026).

  • Official Statement: New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, District 23 (Jan 11, 2026).

    • Comments

    Post a Comment