Image from surveillance footage that police say shows Jackeline Chavira, 23, knokcing over a 15 ft. crucifix at St. Patrick's Church in Watsonville, Calif. (Watsonville Police Department)
A woman has been arrested by Northern California cops, who say she knocked over a 15-foot crucifix in an act of vandalism caught on video.
Watsonville Police said surveillance footage shows 23-year-old Jackeline Chavira walking into St. Patrick’s Church Wednesday, heading to the altar and pushing over the crucifix after checking to see that no was watching.
Chavira, 23, then went next door and damaged a statue and artwork in a prayer room where two parishioners were praying, police said.
VANDAL URINATES ON BROOKLYN CHURCH STATUES, SMASHES THEM IN POSSIBLE HATE CRIME: COPS
Watsonville police posted video of the crucifix being vandalized on Facebook where it was viewed 18,000 times within hours, The Fresno Bee reported.
Mugshot for accused church vandal Jackeline Chavira, 23. (Watsonville Police Department)
“So sad that a sacred place where you go to worship and have quiet prayer will now more than likely be closed during the day,” who left a comment after viewing the video. “Rotten choices other people have made, ruins it for us all.”
PAINTING OF JESUS MIRACULOUSLY SURVIVES INFERNO AT HISTORIC MASSACHUSETTS CHURCH
Cops accused Chavira, 23, of vandalizing the church during a 40-minute crime spree.
The vandalism at St. Patrick’s caused $15,000 in damage, police said.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Chavira was being held at the Santa Cruz County Jail Thursday after being booked on several charges. Her bail was set at $25,000.
True Crime
The hottest stories ripped from the headlines, from crime to courts, legal and scandal.
By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.
