2 Arrested In NJ Church Organ Vandalism; Police Look For 1 More Suspect

Two men were arrested for vandalizing a New Jersey church organ last week and attempted to steal the pipes.

Freehold residents Junior B. Romero and Darwin Romero, both 35 and unrelated, were charged with burglary, criminal mischief and unlawful entry of a structure, The Washington Times reported.

In an ABC7 Eyewitness News report, the First United Methodist Church of Freehold posted on about the incident on Facebook last Wednesday, January 22, saying that someone trespassed into the church and attempted to steal the pipes.

The church’s pastor, Wil Wilson said that this led to the collapse of the pipes which then fell onto the organ.

"While the damage is shocking and disturbing, we thank God that no one was injured and nothing was stolen," Wilson said on the post.

The organ is almost 60 years old and sits at the heart of the church.

The church’s officials reported that one of the doors was unlatched but they are still unsure whether the crime was planned or happened by chance.

Pastor Wil said that he had forgiven the suspects and encourages everyone to pray for them.

The church is getting calls from people who want to help with the damage and insurance will cover most of the cost, which was reportedly estimated at $15,000 to $20,000.

Meanwhile, police are looking for a third suspect.

Those who have any information in connection to the case can call the Freehold Police Department.