Vandals Deface, Behead Church Statues In “Heinous” Crime

Vandals destroyed more than half a dozen statues of religious figures outside two South Jersey churches in a crime police are calling "heinous."

Six stone statues on the grounds of the Sacred Heart Church at 922 E. Landis Avenue in Vineland, N.J. were found defaced on Thursday morning, police told NBC10. The statues had either their faces chipped off, were beheaded or had arms chopped off.

A few hours later, police were called to the Divine Mercy Parish at 23 W. Chestnut Avenue where at least one statue was vandalized, officials said.

The damage at both churches is estimated at $16,000.

Vineland Police say the vandals are unknown and are asking for the public's help in finding those responsible. Anyone with information is asked to call 856.691.4111.

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