Authorities Seek Man Suspected In Break-Ins At Churches

THOUSAND OAKS (CBSLA.com) — Authorities seek help in locating a man suspected in a string of burglaries at churches.

Security video taken about 5 a.m. Monday at The Bridge in Thousand Oaks shows a man believed to be connected to three break-ins.

Church counselor Richard Heaton says the man helped himself to cash, gift cards and checks donated to help people in crisis.

"Well, it would have been easier for everybody if he just came in and asked for help," Heaton said.

The pastor sent out an email warning other churches in the area. It turns out the same man is suspected of burglarizing St. Columba's Episcopal Church in Camarillo the day before.

The pastor at The Bridge says only $50 in cash was taken, but the damage left behind, including broken locks, cost several hundred dollars to fix.

"It's hard news simply because no one expects someone to rob a church," Heaton said.

The man suspected in the burglaries also is linked to a break-in at a nearby medical office Oct. 11. And Ventura County sheriff's deputies need the public's help finding the man believed to be in his 20s who might drive a pickup similar to a Chevrolet Silverado.

Heaton said he hopes the man turns himself in.

"I just pray that he does the right thing, he would come out, tell us who he is and let us help him," he said.