Liverpool (WSYR-TV) -- A Liverpool church community is still reeling after thousands of dollars in donations were stolen.
Liverpool police tell NewsChannel 9 a little less than what was originally reported was actually stolen. According to police, about $6,100 in donations was stolen from the church.
Investigators are speaking with what they're calling “persons of interest” in the case, but are not giving away any further details at this time.
Police are urging other churches to keep their collections secure.
Thousands of dollars missing from Liverpool church
February 20, 2012
Liverpool (WSYR-TV) -- Thousands of dollars in donations are missing from Liverpool First United Methodist Church, according to the church's minister.
Nearly $7,200 was taken in church offerings and donations made during Sunday services, said Rev. Maidstone Mulenga, director of communications for the United Methodist Church Upper New York Conference.
According to Mulenga, there was no sign of a break-in or foul play from the outside.
"The money had been prepared, counted and was ready to be taken to the bank,” said Mulenga. "And we believe it was taken just before it was to be taken to the bank."
The incident has got people in the village asking the question: Who would do such a thing?
One person told NewsChannel 9, “That’s pretty low, churches do a lot of good, so I can’t imagine how anybody could do such a thing.”
The church says it depends on that money to pay the bills and provide vital services to its congregation.
The church does keep a record of all checks received during services and has contacted everyone who donated.
As for the official investigation, we’re still awaiting word from Liverpool Police.
