Man accused of breaking into ‘poor box’ at Chestnut Hill church

Philadelphia police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who broke into a church in Chestnut Hill and tried to steal a monetary collection box.
Photo credit Philadelphia Police Department/YouTube

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who broke into a church in Chestnut Hill and tried to steal a monetary collection box.

Investigators released a video on Tuesday showing a man inside the Our Mother of Consolation Church. The video, taken around 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 20, shows the man walking across the altar toward the “poor box” in the main worship area, police said.

Detectives said a priest heard commotion and confronted the suspect. The man damaged the box, but there was nothing in it for him to take.

The suspect ran off.

Surveillance video

Anyone with information is asked to contact police. Tips can be submitted anonymously online or by calling or texting 215-686-8477.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Philadelphia Police Department/YouTube