A thief broke into the Judea United Baptist Church in Hempstead overnight and stole $15,000 worth of items.
The church was found ransacked this morning by its pastor. Deacon Charles Renfroe believes the break-in occurred either late last night or early this morning.
An iPad, a keyboard and a soundboard were among the items stolen.
The parish is appalled by the crime.
"When I was growing up, this was unheard of," says Renfroe. "No one would ever defile a church."