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Vandals repeatedly target a Westmoreland County church, causing thousands in damages

DERRY, Pa. — The priest at St. Joseph Church in Derry Borough is frustrated and saddened by repeated acts of vandalism in recent weeks.

The Rev. Sam Lamendola told Channel 11 the church has been targeted five times since early November.

Whoever is responsible broke windows and doors to get inside, but nothing of value has been taken.

“They’ve moved statues, crucifixes have been left lying on the floor. The votive candles area has been toppled at least three times with potential for a fire, which is very upsetting,” Lamendola said.

Church officials are working to get a security and surveillance system in place.

“We should be building up one another, our communities and our families rather than destroying or hurting one another, and this has all been very hurtful to the parishioners,” Lamendola said.

Both local and state police are investigating.