Last weekend, a statue of Jesus was decapitated outside a church in Long Island, an act carried out by individuals with no regard for faith. However, local police responded to the community’s concerns and swiftly took action.
Deyonna Sbert, 41, was arrested on Wednesday, facing charges of criminal mischief after a several-day manhunt by the Suffolk County Police Department’s Hate Crimes Unit. Authorities allege she was responsible for the vandalism at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in East Islip.
Law enforcement believes the Bay Shore resident may have been struggling with mental health issues that contributed to the incident.
“With all that’s happening across the nation—attacks on mosques, rising anti-Semitism, and hostility toward Christians—it’s easy to lose faith in humanity,” remarked Lou Civello, president of the Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association, shortly after the arrest.
Prior to the announcement of Sbert’s arrest, Civello partnered with the Good Foundation, a nonprofit supporting Long Island law enforcement, to address the concerns raised by the church community. They each contributed $1,000 to help the church replace the damaged statue.
“Our role is to apprehend those who commit crimes, and it’s rare that we can actually restore what’s been harmed,” Civello noted, presenting a check to St. Mary’s pastor, Anthony Iconis, soon after the arrest.
Despite their anger and disappointment over the statue’s destruction, Pastor Iconis and his congregation expressed forgiveness towards Sbert. They even extended an invitation for her to join them at the church for penance.
“It’s a destructive act,” Iconis stated regarding the vandalism. “Yet, Christ teaches us to forgive, fostering peace.”
Marleni Danesi, a long-time member of St. Mary’s Church, described the incident as “sad but not unexpected,” sharing that she was praying for Sbert. “Countering hate with love is essential. God cares for all sinners,” Danesi added.
