A woman faces charges after allegedly damaging a statue at a Long Island Catholic church. Police arrested Deyonna Subert, 41, described as “undomiciled,” for second-degree criminal mischief. The statue, depicting the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was vandalized at St. Mary’s Church in East Islip, as reported by Suffolk County Police.
The incident occurred on May 15, around 11:15 p.m., at the church on 118 East Main St. Police apprehended Subert at 6:39 a.m. outside 221 West Main Street in Bay Shore, after an investigation conducted by Hate Crimes Unit detectives.
“After an investigation by Hate Crimes Unit detectives, Deyonna Subert was arrested outside of 221 West Main Street in Bay Shore at 6:39 a.m.,” Suffolk County Police stated in a press release.
The statue’s head was found missing by churchgoers on the morning of the following Sunday. Parishioners had gathered for regular services and First Communion ceremonies. News12 Long Island captured video footage of the event, where Father Anthony Iaconis of St. Mary’s shared that the head was later discovered in nearby bushes.
Father Anthony Iaconis expressed his shock, saying it would be upsetting for anyone, regardless of religious affiliation. Parishioner Regina Vavricka echoed similar sentiments, indicating the incident’s broader impact.
Meanwhile, donations have started to come in to support the restoration of the statue. The church aims to have it repaired in a few days.
“Yeah, it’s a terrible thing,” Iaconis commented. “I just ask people to pray for the person who did this. It’s not right, but we can still pray for them.”
The Hate Crimes Unit detectives continue to investigate. Suffolk County Police emphasized that charges remain accusations until proven in court.
Jasmine Baehr, a Breaking News Writer for Fox News Digital, contributed to this report.