Sparta New Jersey police arrested a woman who allegedly vandalized a church on Christmas Eve.
The vandalism incident reportedly occurred at the Institute for Spiritual Development on Sparta Avenue in Sparta, NJ. According to law enforcement, the suspect tossed a rock at the exterior of the church in an attempt to get the attention of someone inside the building. The suspect reportedly needed a ride home.
When the rock went through a stained glass window in the church, someone dialed 911 and notified the Sparta Police Department. Sparta NJ police officers went to the scene and spoke to the suspect, who allegedly admitted to throwing the rock. The suspect was subsequently placed under arrest.
The damage to the church building has been estimated at roughly $5,000. Depending on the outcome of the case, it is possible that the suspect will be liable for the damages.
The suspect, a 39-year-old Hamburg resident, has been charged with third degree criminal mischief. If she is convicted of the felony-level offense, she could potentially be sentenced to 3-5 years in New Jersey State Prison.
After being arrested and charged, the suspect secured her release from police custody. She will have to appear in Sussex County Superior Court at a later date to answer the criminal charges against her.
For more information about this case, see the NJ.com article, “Woman Accused of Throwing Rock through Church Window.”