NYC Church Targeted in Robbery and Vandalism

St. Anastasia Catholic Church in Douglaston, New York City, was the site of a robbery and act of vandalism on Saturday, April 1, 2026. Police responded to the church following reports of the incident, which occurred around 11:45 a.m.

Details of the Incident

According to police reports, the suspect entered the church and poured a drink into the baptismal font, a receptacle containing consecrated water. The individual then proceeded to steal an undisclosed amount of money from the church’s donation box.

Further Acts of Disrespect

In addition to the theft and desecration of the holy water, the suspect also removed a cloth from the altar. This act further compounded the disrespectful nature of the incident.

Suspect Description and Police Appeal

The suspect was last seen wearing a blue hat, a light-colored sweatshirt, a black jacket, dark-colored pants, and dark-colored sneakers. They were also carrying a bookbag.

The New York City Police Department is asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Individuals can contact the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS. Spanish speakers can call 1-888-57-PISTA.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Crime Stoppers website.