Two arrested for church burglary

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) - Hampton police say the two males wanted in connection with a church break-in are in custody. One of the suspects is a juvenile.

Alec Grey Sassi, 18, of Newport News and a 17-year-old accomplice from Hampton, have each been charged with one count of breaking and entering and one count of grand larceny.

The suspects entered St. Marks United Methodist Church at 3 a.m. on Jan. 26. Police say the men left the church, located on East Mercury Boulevard, with money and electronics.

Like most churches, the symbol that sits atop the roof of St. Marks United Methodist Church is symbolic of much more than religion.

"We just housed homeless men and women in the church," Pastor Roy White said.

White explained the giving doesn't stop there for those in need.

"We do the best we can to help them," White added. "If we can't help them, we do the best to get them in touch with somebody who can."

But early Thursday morning, the giving turned into taking. Police say the men took whatever they could get their hands on.

"I don't think anyone breaks in anywhere unless they are desperate," White added.

Pastor White said the men didn't get away with a whole lot. But, the church will incur some costs as they change locks and install other security measures.

"These two people are causing us to expend money that we could have used to provide some help and some comfort," White added.

Comfort for those who need it, like the two suspects, according to Pastor White.

Police spokesman Jason Price said a viewer who saw the released surveillance footage identified the suspects. No charges have been filed at this time.