Church break-in and arson incident leads to arrest in Cobb County
In a series of shocking events, Anthony Harris Jr. has found himself at the centre of a criminal investigation following a church incident in Atlanta, Ga.
On the morning of July 20, Harris was discovered inside the Celestial Church of Christ, having entered through an unlocked window around 9 a.m. Officers on the scene reported that Harris ignored their orders to stop, leading to a confrontation that ended only when they threatened to use a Taser. Harris was charged with burglary, obstructing or hindering law enforcement, and possession and use of a drug-related object.
The drug-related charges stemmed from the discovery of a glass pipe containing a white powdery substance and a metal pipe used to inhale vapors from illicit narcotics. Despite resisting arrest, Harris was taken into custody without further incident.
However, the most serious charges against Harris came in August, following an incident at the same church. According to Smyrna Fire Marshal Dustin Davey, the fire at the Celestial Church of Christ was intentionally set. Harris is alleged to have used lamp oil to start the fire, causing damage estimated to be between $5,000 and $10,000.
In addition to the arson charge, Harris faces charges of burglary, theft, and criminal damage to property. He is accused of stealing $2,500 from a safe, robes, and sashes from the church.
Despite a prior arrest for allegedly breaking into the Celestial Church of Christ in Smyrna, there is no available search results or credible information indicating any prior charges against Harris related to this church.
Harris's behaviour in the July 20 incident was not limited to resisting arrest. When officers tried to put him in the back of a patrol car, he resisted by throwing his body around and jumping about the rear of the vehicle.
In light of these events, Harris was denied bond due to being deemed a danger to the community. The incident was captured on surveillance video, but the footage has not been released to the public.
As the investigation continues, Harris remains in custody, awaiting trial on the multiple charges against him.
