LOS ANGELES (AP) - Authorities in Los Angeles have arrested a man for investigation of vandalizing and attempting to set fires in a Catholic church and related crimes.
Los Angeles police say 58-year-old Russel Congleton was arrested Monday by members of the Inter-Agency House of Worship Task Force.
The vandalism and arson targeted Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, a Spanish colonial-style landmark in North Hollywood.
Around 4:45 a.m. on July 25, the church doors were forced open by a vandal who attempted to set three fires inside, smashed stained-glass windows and damaged statues, books, candles and candleholders. Holy oils were spread throughout the church.
A fourth fire was set outside and in a trash bin at a nearby bank, and five vehicles had windows smashed.
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