Alabama Man Arrested After Threats to California Monastery
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department apprehended a man from Alabama, who was allegedly armed with brass knuckles, knives, high-capacity magazines, and body armor after reportedly making threats against a Catholic monastery located in California.
Joshua Michael Richardson was taken into custody late last month, following reports that he had sent threatening emails to St. Michael’s Abbey, according to the sheriff’s department.
Authorities disclosed that the emails, which were flagged on August 28, contained alarming language deemed as threats.
The situation intensified when Richardson allegedly traveled from Alabama to Southern California, subsequently appearing at the abbey where additional threats were made, according to investigators.
A priest who interacted with Richardson alerted the sheriff’s department two days later, prompting an immediate investigation.
Sgt. Gerard McCann informed local media that Richardson made the journey to California on the same day he visited the abbey.
Deputies promptly located and detained him.
A search of his vehicle revealed a cache of weapons and tactical gear, including large-capacity magazines, body armor, knives, and brass knuckles.
Richardson was taken into custody without resistance and booked into the Orange County Jail.
On September 1, charges were formally filed against him by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. The charges include possession of brass knuckles, carrying a concealed dagger, possession of a large-capacity magazine, and making criminal threats.
In a statement to news outlets, Jarryd Gonzales, a spokesperson for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange, confirmed the incident and expressed gratitude toward local law enforcement for their swift response.
“The Diocese of Orange was informed of a threat directed at St. Michael’s Abbey. Local law enforcement acted quickly, and a suspect has been apprehended,” Gonzales stated. “We appreciate the quick action taken by officials to ensure the safety of our parish community.”
He emphasized that the diocese is treating the incident with seriousness, given the rising number of threats against places of worship across the country, referencing a recent shooting incident at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis.
In response to this event, the sheriff’s department has increased patrols around the monastery, which spans 320 acres of a former ranch, while enhanced private security measures have also been implemented at the abbey.
Authorities reiterated the significance of community awareness.
“While incidents like this can be alarming, they also underscore the importance of community vigilance,” officials remarked. “If something appears suspicious, report it. Trust your instincts and communicate any unusual behavior or concerning messages. Your report could prevent a crime.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and law enforcement urged anyone with pertinent information to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 714-647-7000.
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