MORRISTOWN (WATE) – The Hamblen County Sheriff’s Office is warning other churches to be on high alert after a burglary at a Morristown church.
The break-in happened Saturday, October 10, at Barton Springs Presbyterian Church on East A.J. Highway. Deputies said burglars forced a lock on the fellowship hall door and took audio and electrical equipment.
Something’s missing at the pulpit as the microphone disappeared a month ago.
“Well his voice carries so it hasn’t been a terrible inconvenience,” said member Clark Quillen.
Barton Springs Presbyterian Church is deal with the inconvenience of replacing their microphones, amplifiers, assisted hearing aids, a TV and even gospel CDs because they were stolen. The only thing the burglar didn’t take that night was speakers.
“Those I believe because they’re so high up he couldn’t reach them easily,” said Quillen.
Hamblen County detectives say whoever did this got in by jimmying a lock.
“At this point we have no suspects. We’re not sure if it’s one or possibly two people. We believe they actually hit two other churches one in Jefferson County and another in Cocke County,” said Carrie McCann with HCSO.
Detectives hope someone, somewhere, knows something.
“If someone out there starts to try and sell this pa system that’s meant for a large audience, electronics, give us a call,’ added McCann.
In the meantime, churches across East Tennessee can be vigilant. HCSO recommends they secure their buildings with deadbolt locks and added security measures.
Many in the Barton Springs Presbyterian congregation feel they’ve lost their sense of security.
“It’s just disappointing because you just don’t think someone is ever going to break into a church,” said Quillen.
Teir faith is what’s helping them to move forward.
“I’m sure everyone here would forgive that person,” added Quillen.
Anyone that sees or hears anything suspicious is asked to call Detective Jim Brooks at (423) 585-2777.
