Over $5,000 in Musical Equipment Stolen from Church of God Pentecostal in Miami

The Church of God Pentecostal in Miami-Dade County reported a theft involving more than $5,000 worth of musical equipment. Thieves broke into the church on 59th Street and 23rd Avenue by shattering a window and entering through it. They took two amplifiers and a mixing table from the sanctuary.

Pastor Orlando Barrera stated that the thieves “do not respect the church,” noting that similar incidents have occurred before, including the theft of car batteries from vehicles parked in the church’s lot. The pastor emphasized the community’s effort in acquiring the stolen equipment, which was essential for their ministry.

Deacon Tony Marshall described the incident, explaining that the thieves used a brick to break the window and immediately proceeded to the sanctuary. He expressed the church’s pain over the loss, highlighting the time and effort invested by the congregation to obtain the equipment.

Local residents have expressed support for the Church of God Pentecostal, praising its community service. They noted the church’s weekly food distribution to homeless individuals, which has become a vital resource in the area.

This incident is part of a broader pattern of thefts affecting churches in South Florida. Police are investigating two similar cases in Miramar, where musical instruments were also stolen. These events have raised concerns about security in religious institutions.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)