Not Their Finest Hour
After being alerted by the church’s alarm company, the church’s key holder responded. Upon arrival, they noticed signs of forced entry and immediately contacted Iredell County Emergency Communications. A backpack, skateboard, and other personal belongings were also found outside the church.
The Deputy and the key holder checked the exterior of the church before locating an unlocked door. The Deputy entered the building and heard movement, followed by the sound of an exterior door closing. Suspecting someone was attempting to escape, the Deputy quickly ran outside and was able to intercept and detain both individuals.
The individuals were identified as David Allen Jewell, 32, of Statesville, and David Austin Painter, 31, of Harmony.
Jewell and Painter were arrested and transported to the Iredell County Detention Center. Both suspects are charged with Breaking and Entering a Place of Worship. Bond for each was set for $10,000.